McSteamy forever! Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane dies at 53, months after revealing ALS diagnosis

The California-born actor passed away on Thursday afternoon following what his family described as a courageous battle with the degenerative illness.

Family confirms tragic loss

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” his family said in a statement.

They revealed that the actor spent his final days surrounded by close friends, his wife Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, whom they described as “the centre of his world”.

“He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and was forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support,” the statement added.

A career defined by iconic roles

Dane rose to global fame as Dr Mark Sloan, affectionately dubbed ‘McSteamy’, on Grey’s Anatomy, where his charismatic screen presence made him one of the show’s most memorable characters. 

Years later, he captivated a new generation of viewers as Cal Jacobs, the troubled family patriarch, in Euphoria.

Beyond television, Dane appeared in the popular fantasy series Charmed and starred as Captain Tom Chandler in The Last Ship. 

His film credits included Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day and Burlesque.

Eric Dane in Grey's Anatomy. Photo: Screen-grab from YouTube

ALS diagnosis

Dane was diagnosed with ALS last year and used his platform in the months that followed to raise awareness about the most common form of motor neurone disease. 

ALS is a rare, progressive condition that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, gradually robbing patients of the ability to move, speak, eat and breathe independently.

Speaking to ABC Network's Good Morning America last summer, Dane admitted his diagnosis left him feeling angry and fearful, particularly for his children.

“My father was taken from me when I was young,” he said. “And now there’s a very good chance I’m going to be taken from my girls while they’re very young.”

Dane’s father died by suicide when the actor was just seven years old.

Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane made his television debut in The Wonder Years in 1993 before building a career that spanned more than three decades.

Tributes pour in from co-stars

Following news of his death, tributes poured in from colleagues and collaborators. 

Grey’s Anatomy co-star Kim Raver remembered his sharp wit and impeccable timing on set, while Kevin McKidd shared a brief but heartfelt tribute on social media.

Euphoria creator Sam Levinson described Dane as both a gifted actor and a cherished friend, saying working with him was “an honour” and knowing him “a gift”.