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As you probably know by now, Eric Dane passed away last month at the age of 53.
As you probably know by this point, the veteran actor — best known for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria — has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
According to the star’s official death certificate, we can now confirm that Dane died of respiratory failure… with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis listed as the underlying cause of death.
Dane is survived by his wife Rebecca Gayheart and two children: Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13.
Dane’s family had previously confirmed the actor’s death on February 19.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eric Dane on Thursday afternoon after a courageous battle with ALS,” his family wrote at the time.
“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.
“We will miss him greatly and always remember him with love. 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.”
Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive degenerative disease that affects nerve cells, eventually leading to muscle paralysis, according to the Mayo Clinic. There is no cure.
By the end of his life, Dane had essentially lost the ability to speak.
“I have been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,” Dane said in April 2025. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we move into this next chapter.
“I feel fortunate to be able to continue working and look forward to returning to the Euphoria set next week. I ask that you please grant me and my family privacy during this time.”
Since Dane’s death, a number of celebrities have posted messages of sympathy and grief on social media.
“I have no reason to be in a good spirit at any time, any day, and I don’t think anyone would blame me if I went upstairs into my bedroom, crawled under the sheets, and spent the next two weeks crying,” Dane said at a virtual panel featuring I AM ALS and Synapticure co-founders Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrivaya for Giving Tuesday on December 2.
“I was a little surprised when I realized I wasn’t created this way, because I thought for sure that would be me…
“It’s important that I share my journey with as many people as possible because I don’t feel like my life is about me anymore.”
