LOS ANGELES — Veteran television and film actor Eric Dane has died at the age of 53 after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), his family announced Thursday. Dane’s passing comes less than a year after he publicly revealed his diagnosis with the degenerative neurological disease, widely known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Dane died on February 19, 2026, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, according to a family statement. The family requested privacy as they mourn and asked that his legacy be remembered both for his work on screen and his efforts off it.
Across a career that spanned decades, Dane became a well-known face on television, earning global fame for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan — affectionately nicknamed “McSteamy” on the long-running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. Originally cast for a brief guest appearance, his charismatic presence saw him become a series regular for multiple seasons, making Sloan one of the show’s most memorable characters.
In later years, Dane took on the role of Cal Jacobs in HBO’s acclaimed teen drama Euphoria, portraying the complex father of one of the show’s central characters. His performance in both series helped cement his status as a versatile actor capable of navigating both mainstream drama and edgier contemporary narratives.
The ALS diagnosis, which Dane revealed in April 2025, marked a deeply personal chapter in his life. ALS is a progressive motor neuron disease that gradually robs patients of the ability to walk, speak, swallow, and eventually breathe independently. There is presently no cure, and most patients survive only a few years after diagnosis.
Despite the rapid progression of his illness, Dane became an outspoken advocate for ALS awareness and research. He spoke at national news conferences and events, including in Washington, D.C., where he highlighted the need for expanded research, better health insurance coverage, and long-term support for patients living with the disease. In 2025, he was named Advocate of the Year by the ALS Network in recognition of his efforts.
Colleagues, friends, and fans around the world responded with an outpouring of tributes after news of his death. Former Grey’s Anatomy co-stars praised his warmth and professionalism, while industry figures highlighted his bravery both on and off screen. Many noted that his willingness to speak openly about his condition helped bring much-needed attention to ALS at a time when visibility for the disease remains limited.
Dane’s work extended beyond Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria; he appeared in projects like the TNT drama The Last Ship, where he played a naval captain navigating post-apocalyptic challenges, as well as several feature films, including X-Men: The Last Stand and Marley & Me.
He is survived by his daughters, his wife, and a legacy of performances that resonated with audiences worldwide and a renewed public focus on a devastating disease that claimed his life.