Eric Dane, known for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, died at the age of 53 on February 19. His death comes 10 months after the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) was announced.
His death was confirmed to People magazine in a statement issued by the actor’s family. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eric Dane on Thursday afternoon,” the statement read.
She noted that Dane, who wowed audiences playing Dr. Mark Sloan – also known as McSteamy on Grey’s Anatomy – had died after battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
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“He spent his final days surrounded by his dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world. Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same battle. He will be greatly missed, and always remembered with love. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.” continued.
When Dane announced his ALS diagnosis, he told the publication, “I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we move into this next chapter.”
What is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is a disease of the nervous system that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It causes loss of muscle control, according to the Mayo Clinic.
This disease worsens over time. It is often called Lou Gehrig after the basketball player who was diagnosed with it. The cause of ALS is unknown, and in some cases it is hereditary.
The Mayo Clinic also notes that ALS begins with muscle twitching and weakness in an arm or leg. One may also have difficulty swallowing or difficulty speaking. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) ultimately affects the muscle control a person needs to move, speak, eat, and breathe. There is no cure for this deadly disease.
Even after his ALS diagnosis was announced, Dane confirmed that he would continue filming the third season of Euphoria starring Sydney Sweeney.
Who was Eric Dane?
Dane was born in San Francisco in 1972. His father died of his injuries when he was seven years old. Dane found acting by chance, and spoke to Gulf Times about it, saying: “I was a water polo player in high school and had a short season, and I ended up getting involved in playing Joe Keller in All My Sons. Very serious. And I fell in love with it. It was, like, this is the greatest feeling ever!”.
He moved to Los Angeles after graduation and landed guest spots on shows like Roseanne and Married… with Children. He then appeared in two seasons of Charmed and got The Basket as his first movie. In 2006, it was Mark Sloan’s turn, and fans’ love made McSteamy a mainstay over the seasons. He left the show in 2012, noting that he was struggling with addiction at the time and was basically “quitting.”
Dane has been married to actress Rebecca Gayheart since 2004. They have two daughters together – Billie and Georgia, who were born in 2010 and 2011 respectively. Gayheart filed for divorce in 2018 but filed again to dismiss it in 2025. Dane’s net worth is estimated to be around $7 million according to Celebrity Net Worth.
