Hollywood mourns beloved television star
Eric Dane has died at the age of 53, less than a year after revealing he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The actor, widely recognised for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, passed away on Thursday afternoon following what his family described as a “courageous battle with ALS.”
In a statement, his family said: “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS.”
He was 53.
From Dr McSteamy to complex screen roles
Dane became a household name for portraying Dr Mark Sloan- famously nicknamed “Dr McSteamy”- on Grey’s Anatomy, a role that cemented his place in television history.
In recent years, he starred as Cal Jacobs, the troubled family patriarch in HBO’s hit drama Euphoria.
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane made his television debut in The Wonder Years in 1993. He went on to appear in Charmed, The Last Ship, and films including Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, and Burlesque.
Family and final months
Dane was married to actress and model Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he shared two daughters, Billie and Georgia.
According to the family’s statement, he spent his final days surrounded by close friends, his wife, and his daughters, who were described as “the center of his world.”
“He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received.”
Since publicly sharing his diagnosis in April 2025, Dane had spoken openly about living with ALS and raising awareness of the disease. In an interview on Good Morning America, he admitted feeling anger following his diagnosis, reflecting on the loss of his own father during childhood and expressing concern about being taken from his daughters too soon.
Tributes pour in
Tributes from co-stars and industry colleagues followed swiftly.
Kim Raver, who plays Teddy Altman on Grey’s Anatomy, recalled his “mischievous look” and perfect comedic timing on set.
Kevin McKidd posted “rest in peace buddy” on Instagram.
Euphoria creator Sam Levinson told Variety: “I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend. Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift.”
Actor Ashton Kutcher, who starred alongside him in Valentine’s Day, wrote: “Miss you, buddy. Let’s keep fighting the fight to solve ALS.”
Meanwhile, Nina Dobrev, who appeared with Dane in the 2022 film Redeeming Love, described him as “warm, generous, prepared, and so passionate about what he did.”
What is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is the most common form of motor neurone disease (MND).
According to the NHS, MND encompasses several conditions characterised by the premature degeneration of motor nerves. Nearly 90% of patients diagnosed with MND have the mixed ALS form.
ALS is a rare degenerative disease that causes progressive muscle paralysis. There is currently no cure. The Muscular Dystrophy Association states that most people live between three to five years after diagnosis, although some patients can live significantly longer.
Eric Dane dies leaving behind a legacy defined not only by memorable screen performances, but also by his openness and advocacy in the face of a devastating illness.
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