Grey’s Anatomy Star Eric Dane Dies at 53 After ALS Battle

Eric Dane, the actor who captured hearts as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on “Grey’s Anatomy,” has died at the age of 53 following a battle with ALS.

Dane’s family confirmed his passing in a statement, saying he died Thursday afternoon surrounded by loved ones.

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed… following a courageous battle with ALS,” the statement read. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia.”

Born in San Francisco, Dane discovered acting almost by accident and quickly realized it was his calling. Before becoming a household name, he appeared in guest roles on hit shows including “Saved by the Bell,” “The Wonder Years,” “Roseanne,” “Married With Children,” and “Silk Stalkings.”

His breakout moment came in 2006 when he joined “Grey’s Anatomy” as Dr. Mark Sloan. The character, affectionately nicknamed “McSteamy,” became a fan favorite during the show’s golden years. At its peak, “Grey’s Anatomy” averaged more than 20 million viewers per episode, cementing its place as one of television’s most successful medical dramas.

Dane later found a new generation of fans with his role on HBO’s “Euphoria,” showcasing his range well beyond the romantic heartthrob persona that first made him famous.

Dane publicly announced his ALS diagnosis last year. ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The condition gradually robs individuals of muscle control, eventually affecting speech, mobility, and breathing.

According to the ALS Association, approximately 5,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Most patients live between three and five years after symptoms begin, though some survive longer.

Throughout his illness, Dane became an advocate for ALS awareness and research. His family said he was determined to make a difference for others facing the same diagnosis.

“Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received,” the family added, requesting privacy during their time of grief.

Dane married actress Rebecca Gayheart in 2004, and the couple shared two daughters. Though Gayheart filed for divorce in 2018, she later called it off, describing their relationship as one of enduring friendship and mutual respect.

Friends and colleagues have begun sharing tributes, remembering Dane not just as a talented actor but as a devoted father and husband.

From guest roles in the 1990s to leading roles in two of television’s most talked-about series, Dane built a career that left a lasting imprint on Hollywood. For millions of fans, he will forever be the charming surgeon who walked the halls of Seattle Grace and the performer who brought depth and humanity to every role.

Eric Dane is survived by his wife and daughters.

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