Eric Dane, Grey's Anatomy star, dies at 53 after ALS diagnosis

eric dane, the actor known for Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at 53 less than a year after revealing he had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His family said he passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle and that he spent his final months raising funds and awareness for the disease.

Family, tributes and final months

His family said: "With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. " The statement said he spent his final days surrounded by friends, his devoted wife Rebecca Gayheart, and his two daughters, Billie and Georgia, "who were the center of his world. " His representatives described him as determined to make a difference for others as he advocated for ALS research and awareness in his final months.

Eric Dane's career and notable roles

Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane made his television debut in 1993 on The Wonder Years. He first arrived on Grey's Anatomy in the show's second series in 2006 as Dr Mark Sloan — widely known as "McSteamy" — and later became a main cast member. He starred in Grey's Anatomy from 2006 until 2012 and reprised his role in 2021. Dane also played Cal Jacobs on HBO's Euphoria, Jason Dean in Charmed, and Captain Tom Chandler in The Last Ship, and appeared in films including Marley & Me, Valentine's Day and Burlesque.

He announced his ALS diagnosis in April 2025 and spent the time that followed publicly raising funds and awareness for the most common form of motor neurone disease. His representatives said he would be lovingly remembered and deeply missed, and that he adored his fans and was grateful for the outpouring of love and support he received.

Colleagues remembered him on screen and off

Former co-stars paid tribute to his work and his personality. Patrick Dempsey described Dane as "a joy to work with" and remembered his sense of humour and intelligence. Kim Raver recalled the comedic timing and the twinkle in his eye he brought to scenes, and Kevin McKidd posted "rest in peace buddy. " Euphoria creator Sam Levinson said he was heartbroken by the loss.

Throughout his career Dane moved between television and film, building a profile from guest spots to long-running roles. His career milestones include steady television work from the mid-1990s through major series in the 2000s and a return to a signature role in 2021, and he used his platform in the months after his diagnosis to focus attention on ALS.

His memoir is due to be published later this year.