‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star Dies at 53 After ALS Battle

Eric Dane, the charismatic actor beloved for his role as plastic surgeon Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy and his intense portrayal of Cal Jacobs on Euphoria, died Thursday, Feb. 19, at age 53 after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His family confirmed the news in a statement, noting he passed surrounded by loved ones and remained an advocate for ALS awareness until the end.

Dane announced his ALS diagnosis in April 2025, sharing in interviews that he was grateful for his family’s support as he navigated the progressive neurodegenerative disease. Less than a year later, his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans and ALS organizations. Here are 10 key facts about his life, career and legacy.

1. Born in San Francisco with Early Tragedy Eric William Dane was born Nov. 9, 1972, in San Francisco, California. At age 7, he lost his father — a former Navy man turned architect — to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Raised by his mother with help from grandparents, Dane attended Sequoia High School in Redwood City and San Mateo High School, where he played varsity water polo before discovering acting through a school production of Arthur Miller’s All My Sons.
2. Early TV Roles in the 1990s Dane made his television debut in 1991 on Saved by the Bell. He appeared in guest spots on shows like Roseanne, The Wonder Years and Married… with Children before gaining notice as Dr. Wyatt Cooper on Gideon’s Crossing and Jason Dean on Charmed, where he played a romantic interest opposite Alyssa Milano.
3. Breakout as “McSteamy” on Grey’s Anatomy Dane joined Grey’s Anatomy in Season 2 (2006) as charming, flawed plastic surgeon Mark Sloan. Nicknamed “McSteamy” by fans, the role made him a fan favorite. He appeared in over 130 episodes through Season 9, with recurring returns, becoming one of the show’s most memorable characters alongside Patrick Dempsey’s McDreamy.
4. Lead Role in The Last Ship From 2014 to 2018, Dane starred as Navy Captain Tom Chandler in TNT’s post-apocalyptic drama The Last Ship. The series, executive-produced by Michael Bay, ran for five seasons and showcased Dane in a heroic, action-oriented lead role.
5. Intense Performance in Euphoria Dane portrayed Cal Jacobs, a complex, troubled father, in HBO’s Euphoria starting in 2019. His raw depiction of toxic masculinity and family dysfunction earned praise. Season 3, expected to premiere in spring 2026, will feature his final work for the series.
6. Marriage and Family Life Dane married actress Rebecca Gayheart in 2004. They welcomed daughters Billie (born 2010) and Georgia (born 2011). The couple filed for divorce in 2018 but reconciled, with Gayheart dismissing the petition in 2025 amid Dane’s health challenges. His family statement described his daughters as “the center of his world.”
7. ALS Diagnosis and Advocacy In April 2025, Dane revealed his ALS diagnosis publicly in People magazine, saying he was “grateful to have my loving family by my side.” He lost use of his right arm and faced increasing physical limitations but continued advocating. In a December 2025 virtual panel for I AM ALS, he called the disease “so horrible” and vowed to “fight until the last breath.” He guest-starred on Brilliant Minds as an ALS patient, drawing from personal experience.
8. Recent Roles and Cancellations Dane’s final on-screen work included a guest spot on Brilliant Minds and upcoming appearances in Euphoria Season 3 and the film Family Secrets. He canceled public events in late 2025 and early 2026, including an Emmys presentation and an ALS Network gala, citing ALS progression. He missed the 2025 Emmys after a hospital visit for stitches.
9. Advocacy and Awareness Impact Throughout his battle, Dane raised visibility for ALS research and support. He participated in panels and spoke openly about the disease’s challenges, inspiring fans and the community. Tributes from Euphoria creator Sam Levinson, Ashton Kutcher and others highlighted his grace and determination.
10. Legacy as a Versatile Actor and Fighter Dane’s career spanned dramatic, action and intense roles, earning him a place in TV history. His openness about ALS humanized the disease and underscored resilience. Survived by his wife, daughters and extended family, Dane requested privacy as they grieve. Fans remember him for his charm, talent and unwavering fight.

As Hollywood mourns, Dane’s story serves as a reminder of life’s fragility and the power of advocacy. Rest in peace.