Eric Dane, the American actor celebrated for roles in television dramas, including Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Best known to many viewers as Dr Mark Sloan, fondly nicknamed “Dr McSteamy” on Grey’s Anatomy, Dane later gained a new generation of fans portraying Cal Jacobs, the complex family patriarch in HBO’s hit series Euphoria.
His career spanned through television and film, with memorable performances across multiple genres.
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” reads a statement from his family.
Diagnosed with ALS last year, the California-born actor used his final months to raise awareness about the illness, the most common form of motor neurone disease (MND).
ALS is a rare degenerative condition that progressively affects the nerve cells responsible for muscle movement, gradually impacting a person’s ability to speak, eat, walk and breathe independently.
Dane was married to actress and model Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he shared two daughters.
His family said he spent his final days surrounded by close friends and loved ones, especially his wife and daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were described as “the center of his world”.
“He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received,” the statement said.
In addition to his roles, Dane appeared as Jason Dean in the fantasy drama Charmed and starred as Captain Tom Chandler in the action series The Last Ship.
His film credits included appearances in Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, and Burlesque, underscoring a versatile career that left a lasting mark on audiences worldwide.
Eric Dane, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star, dies at 53 after ALS battle
