American actor Eric Dane, widely known for his roles in the hit television dramas Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
His representatives confirmed that Dane passed away on Thursday from complications related to ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He had publicly announced his diagnosis less than a year ago.
In a statement released by his family, Dane was remembered as a devoted husband and father who spent his final days surrounded by loved ones. The statement also highlighted his advocacy work in raising awareness about ALS and supporting research efforts.
Rise to Fame on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’
Eric Dane rose to international fame in the mid-2000s when he was cast as Dr. Mark Sloan, affectionately known as “McSteamy,” on Grey’s Anatomy. He portrayed the charismatic plastic surgeon from 2006 to 2012 and briefly reprised the role in 2021.
Although his character was written off following a tragic plane crash storyline, his legacy remained central to the series, with Seattle Grace Hospital later renamed Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital in tribute to key characters.
Dramatic Reinvention in ‘Euphoria’
In 2019, Dane took on a starkly different role as Cal Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria. His portrayal of the complex and troubled character earned renewed attention and introduced him to a new generation of viewers.
He also starred as Tom Chandler in the TNT drama The Last Ship, playing a U.S. Navy captain navigating a post-apocalyptic global crisis. Production on the series was briefly halted in 2017 while Dane sought treatment for depression.
ALS Diagnosis and Advocacy
In April 2025, Dane revealed he had been diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle movement.
The condition gradually impairs a person’s ability to walk, speak, swallow, and breathe. Most patients live between three and five years after diagnosis.
Following his announcement, Dane became an outspoken advocate for ALS awareness. In June 2025, he spoke at a health policy news conference in Washington, emphasizing the challenges patients face with insurance prior authorization.
Later that year, he was named Advocate of the Year by the ALS Network in recognition of his efforts to support research and raise public awareness.
Eric Dane’s Early Life and Career
Born on November 9, 1972, and raised in Northern California, Eric Dane experienced early personal tragedy when his father, a Navy veteran and architect, died when he was seven years old.
After high school, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. He secured guest roles on several popular television shows, including Saved by the Bell, Married… with Children, and Charmed, before landing film roles such as X-Men: The Last Stand.
Memoir to Be Published in 2026
A memoir titled Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments is scheduled for publication in late 2026 by The Open Field, an imprint of Penguin Random House.
According to the publisher, the book reflects on key moments in Dane’s life, from his early days on Grey’s Anatomy to fatherhood and his experience living with ALS.
In a statement about the memoir, Eric Dane said he hoped sharing his story would help others find meaning and resilience in their own lives.
Family and Legacy
Eric Dane is survived by his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie Beatrice and Georgia Geraldine.
Though the couple separated in 2017 and briefly filed for divorce, they later reconciled privately and maintained a supportive family relationship. Gayheart previously described their bond as rooted in deep familial love and mutual respect.
Eric Dane leaves behind a legacy defined not only by his memorable television roles but also by his advocacy and openness during his illness.
SOURCE: TheAfriPost.com
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