SUMMARY
- Eric Dane, famed for playing McSteamy on Grey’s Anatomy, died from ALS on February 19, 2026.
- Dane was an advocate for ALS awareness and research after his diagnosis in 2025.
- His career spanned over two decades, including major roles in The Last Ship, Euphoria, and multiple films.
LOS ANGELES — Actor Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, died Thursday at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to a statement from his family to PEOPLE.
Dane, who publicly revealed his diagnosis just 10 months ago, passed surrounded by his wife Rebecca Gayheart and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia.
Dane’s death marks a significant loss for both the entertainment industry and ALS advocacy communities.
Rising to fame as the charismatic and complex Dr. Mark Sloan on ABC’s medical drama, he became a cultural icon known for his dramatic storylines and on screen charm.
His openness about his ALS diagnosis brought renewed public attention to the neurodegenerative disease, which affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane endured personal tragedy early in life when his father died from a gunshot wound at the age of seven.
He discovered acting by accident while playing Joe Keller in a school production of All My Sons.
After moving to Los Angeles with minimal funds, Dane built a career with guest appearances on shows like Saved by the Bell, The Wonder Years, and Roseanne, eventually securing recurring roles on Charmed and Gideon’s Crossing.
Dane’s breakout role came in 2006 with Grey’s Anatomy, where he portrayed Dr. Mark Sloan, whose romantic storylines and sex symbol status earned him widespread recognition.
He left the series in 2012, citing both personal challenges and the character’s cost to the network. Dane later appeared in The Last Ship, Euphoria, and films such as Burlesque and Marley & Me.
ALS experts note that Dane’s public disclosure brought important awareness to a disease that affects approximately 20,000 Americans annually.
“High profile figures like Eric Dane help shift public understanding of ALS from a rare condition to a societal concern,” said Dr. Orla Hardiman, professor of neurology at University College Dublin, who leads ALS clinical research.
Entertainment industry analysts emphasize the cultural impact of Dane’s work. “His role in Grey’s Anatomy shaped how television portrayed complex, morally ambiguous male characters,” said Dr. Amanda Lotz, media studies professor at Queensland University of Technology.
“He balanced charisma with vulnerability, which remains influential in TV casting and character development.”
“Eric was a fighter both on and off the screen,” said Dr. James Berry, director of the ALS Association’s California chapter. “His advocacy will continue to inspire patients and families affected by this disease.”
Rebecca Gayheart, his wife, said in a statement, “Eric’s courage and passion for life were unmatched. Our daughters and I were blessed to share every day with him. He will be remembered for the love he gave so freely.
Co-star Chyler Leigh, who played Dr. Lexie Grey, shared via social media: “Eric brought joy, talent, and heart to every set. I will miss him deeply. The world has lost a luminous soul.”
Dane’s passing may catalyze renewed efforts for ALS research funding and public awareness campaigns.
Organizations such as the ALS Association report a persistent need for clinical trials and early diagnosis programs.
Dane’s legacy may also influence how Hollywood balances celebrity advocacy with charitable engagement.
Eric Dane’s death at 53 underscores both the personal toll of ALS and the enduring cultural impact of his career.
From a breakout role on Grey’s Anatomy to his advocacy in his final months, Dane’s life reflected resilience, artistry, and a commitment to raising awareness of neurodegenerative diseases.
He leaves behind a legacy of on screen charisma and off screen advocacy that will continue to resonate in both the entertainment industry and medical communities worldwide.
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