Eric Dane’s cause of death has been determined.
the Gray’s Anatomy The actor, who died on February 19 at the age of 53, died of respiratory failure, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health on his death certificate, as reported. the people magazine. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is listed as the underlying cause of death.
“He spent his last days surrounded by his dear friends, his devoted wife [actress Rebecca Gayheart] His family said in a statement about the news of his death, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world. Dane revealed in April 2025 that he was fighting amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and had been suffering from symptoms of the rare degenerative disease for a year and a half before that point.
During his career in Hollywood, the San Francisco native became known for playing the character Dr. Mark Sloan, also nicknamed “McSteamy,” in the medical drama. grey’s anatomy, And for roles in the TNT post-apocalyptic drama The last ship And HBO trance.
Dane also played an ALS patient in an episode of the NBC medical drama Brilliant mindsHe ended the episode with a voiceover in which his character records his speech in a voice-making application that some patients use when they lose the ability to speak. It was part of an effort by Dane through his career to spread awareness of ALS.
“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 lovingly. Eric loved 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,” Dane’s family said in a statement on February 19.
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