Highlights:
- Eric Dane dies at 53 following a battle with ALS.
- Best known for Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy.
- Also starred in Euphoria and The Last Ship.
- Publicly revealed ALS diagnosis in 2025.
- Survived by daughters Billie and Georgia.
Actor Eric Dane, widely recognized for his roles on Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53, his family confirmed. His death comes nearly one year after he publicly disclosed that he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Dane died Thursday, Feb. 19, following what his family described as a “courageous battle with ALS.” In a statement, they said he spent his final days surrounded by close friends, his devoted wife, and his two daughters, Billie and Georgia, who “were the center of his world.” The family also noted that Dane had become a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research after his diagnosis.
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane faced tragedy early in life when his father died from a gunshot wound when he was 7 years old. He later said the loss profoundly shaped him, though he did not fully grasp its impact until he became a father himself.
Dane discovered acting in high school after being cast in a school production of “All My Sons.” He later moved to Los Angeles with little money and began pursuing roles in television. Early guest appearances included parts on series such as Saved by the Bell, The Wonder Years, Roseanne and Married... with Children. He also had a recurring role on Charmed.
His breakout moment came in 2006 when he joined the second season of Grey’s Anatomy as Dr. Mark Sloan. Initially introduced as a recurring character, Sloan — nicknamed 'McSteamy' by fans — quickly became a series regular due to strong audience response. The character’s storylines often highlighted his charm and complicated romantic entanglements, cementing Dane’s status as a television heartthrob.
Dane left Grey’s Anatomy in 2012 after his character was written off the show. In later interviews, he acknowledged personal struggles during that period, including battles with addiction, though he maintained he was grateful for his time on the series.
Beyond Grey’s Anatomy, Dane starred as Admiral Tom Chandler on The Last Ship from 2014 to 2018. He later took on the complex role of Cal Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria, portraying a conflicted family man leading a secret life. He also appeared in films including Valentine's Day, Marley & Me, Burlesque and Bad Boys: Ride or Die.
Dane married actress Rebecca Gayheart in 2004. The couple welcomed two daughters, Billie and Georgia. Though Gayheart filed for divorce in 2018, she moved to dismiss the filing in 2025.
In his later years, Dane spoke candidly about personal struggles and growth, expressing peace with his life and career. His family has asked for privacy as they mourn.
Dane is survived by his daughters, who he often described as his greatest joy.
