Eric Dane, best known for his memorable roles on television hits Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53 following a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His passing was confirmed on Thursday, February 19, in a statement shared with USA TODAY by his representative, Melissa Bank.
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” the statement read. It went on to describe the actor’s final days as being spent surrounded by his closest loved ones — his devoted wife and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were said to be the center of his world.
The statement also highlighted Dane’s determination throughout his illness. “Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight,” it said. The family expressed gratitude for the love and support he had received from fans and asked for privacy as they navigate this painful time.
Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis of ALS — also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease — in an interview with People magazine last year. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control. In subsequent interviews, Dane shared that he had lost the use of his right arm, offering a candid glimpse into the physical toll the disease had taken on him.
Despite the challenges, he continued to work and remain active in advocacy efforts. Just three weeks before his passing, however, Dane was forced to withdraw from an ALS Network gala due to what the organization described in a January 25 statement as “the physical realities of living with ALS.” He had been scheduled to receive the Dean and Kathleen Rasmussen Advocate of the Year Award in recognition of his efforts to raise awareness and support research for the condition.
In a poignant twist, one of Dane’s final roles mirrored his real-life battle. On NBC’s Brilliant Minds, he portrayed a firefighter diagnosed with ALS. The performance resonated deeply with audiences, particularly given his personal connection to the illness. Many fans praised his strength and vulnerability in taking on such a role during an incredibly difficult chapter of his life.
Eric Dane rose to widespread fame through his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan — affectionately nicknamed “McSteamy” — on Grey’s Anatomy. Introduced as a charming and confident plastic surgeon, Sloan quickly became a fan favorite. His on-screen relationships, emotional storylines, and undeniable charisma cemented his place as one of the show’s most beloved characters. Even years after his departure from the series, his character remained iconic among viewers.
More recently, Dane captivated a new generation of audiences as Cal Jacobs, the complex and often controversial patriarch on HBO’s Euphoria. His portrayal of the troubled father showcased his range as an actor, earning both praise and discussion for the layered performance. He had reprised the role for the upcoming third season of the series, set to premiere in April, making his passing all the more heartbreaking for fans anticipating his return.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dane was remembered as a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, actress and model Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughters, Billie and Georgia. According to those close to him, his family was his greatest source of pride and strength.
Colleagues and fans alike have begun sharing tributes, recalling not only his talent but also his warmth and generosity. Throughout his career, Dane navigated the pressures of Hollywood while remaining candid about his struggles and triumphs. His openness about his ALS diagnosis inspired many, shining a light on a devastating disease that affects thousands of families worldwide.
Eric Dane’s legacy extends far beyond the characters he portrayed. From the hospital halls of Grey’s Anatomy to the raw intensity of Euphoria, he brought depth and authenticity to every role. In his final years, he used his platform to advocate for greater awareness and research for ALS, hoping to make a difference for others facing the same diagnosis.
He will be deeply missed — as an actor, an advocate, and a loving husband and father — but his impact on television and on the ALS community will not be forgotten.