Eric Dane, the actor widely recognized for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy,” has died at the age of 53. His family announced his passing on Thursday, , following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Dane revealed his diagnosis in , and his death comes less than a year later. His family’s statement, shared with CBS News, described him as having spent his final days surrounded by loved ones – his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were “the center of his world.”
“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,” the family statement continued. They requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time, adding that Dane “adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received.”
Born in California, Dane’s career spanned decades, beginning in the early 1990s. While “Grey’s Anatomy” cemented his place in popular culture – earning him the nickname “McSteamy” – his resume included a diverse range of roles in television and film. He appeared in shows like “Euphoria,” where he played Cal Jacobs, “Charmed,” and “The Last Ship.” His film credits include “X-Men: Last Stand” (2006), “Burlesque” (2010), “Marley & Me,” and “Valentine’s Day.”
The actor’s commitment to raising awareness for ALS continued even as the disease progressed. He was scheduled to be honored with the Dean and Kathleen Rasmussen Advocate of the Year Award by the ALS Network, but had to withdraw from the gala due to the physical challenges posed by the illness. He had also been slated to appear at the 20th anniversary celebration of “Grey’s Anatomy” at the 2025 Emmy Awards alongside Jesse Williams, but was unable to attend after suffering a fall and requiring stitches.
In an interview with The Washington Post last October, Dane spoke candidly about the frustrations of living with ALS. He described feeling “angry” about the diagnosis, particularly given the loss of his father at a young age. He acknowledged the rapid progression of the disease, stating, “ALS is a nasty disease.”
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually, difficulty with speaking, eating, and breathing. According to the ALS Association, approximately 1 in 300 Americans are affected by the disease. The Cleveland Clinic estimates a life expectancy of three to five years following diagnosis.
Dane’s passing marks a significant loss for the entertainment industry and for the community of those affected by ALS. His willingness to share his experience and advocate for research will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia.
The actor’s final months were dedicated to raising awareness for ALS, a disease that, as he himself acknowledged, demands greater attention and resources. His courageous battle and public advocacy serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those living with this devastating condition.
