Actor Eric Dane has died at the age of 53 following a battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), his family confirmed in a statement released Thursday.
In a heartfelt message, the family said Dane passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. They described his fight with ALS as courageous and thanked fans around the world for their support during his illness. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this difficult time.
Dane publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis in 2025. ALS, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells responsible for muscle movement. There is currently no cure.
A Career That Spanned Generations
Eric Dane rose to widespread fame as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on the hit ABC drama Grey’s Anatomy. What began as a recurring character quickly evolved into one of the show’s most beloved roles, helping define a major era of the long-running medical series.
In recent years, Dane introduced himself to a new generation of viewers through HBO’s Euphoria, where he portrayed Cal Jacobs — a deeply complex and troubled father. His performance was widely praised for its emotional intensity and vulnerability.
He also led the TNT action drama The Last Ship for five seasons, demonstrating his range beyond romantic drama and into high-stakes action storytelling.
Advocacy and Legacy
Following his diagnosis, Dane became an advocate for ALS awareness and research. Friends and colleagues have described him as resilient, passionate about his craft, and deeply devoted to his family.
Tributes from fellow actors and fans have poured in across social media, remembering him not only for his on-screen presence, but for his strength off screen.
Eric Dane leaves behind a legacy of performances that resonated with millions. His work will continue to live on through the characters he brought to life and the stories he helped tell.
More updates will be shared as additional information becomes available.