Eric Dane Obituary — ALS Cause of Death | “McSteamy” Actor Dies at 53
The global entertainment community is mourning the loss of Eric Dane, the acclaimed actor best known for portraying Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy and for his later work on Euphoria. Dane died on February 19, 2026, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 53, following a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disease.
His death was confirmed by family members and subsequently reported by multiple major news organizations. The announcement marked the conclusion of a distinguished career that spanned more than three decades in television and film. Dane had publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis in 2025 and continued to approach both his work and personal life with openness, resilience, and determination throughout his illness.
Born on November 9, 1972, in San Francisco, California, Eric Dane began building his acting career during the early 1990s, appearing in a range of television productions before achieving international recognition. His breakthrough role came when he joined Grey’s Anatomy as the confident and charismatic Dr. Mark Sloan. His portrayal quickly earned him a devoted fan base and established the character as one of the series’ most recognizable and beloved figures.
Beyond his success on Grey’s Anatomy, Dane demonstrated remarkable range across multiple genres. He appeared in the fantasy drama Charmed, later starred in the military action series The Last Ship, and earned widespread praise for his intense and complex performance as Cal Jacobs on Euphoria. His ability to shift effortlessly between network television, cable dramas, and character-driven roles made him a respected presence within the industry.
In April 2025, Dane publicly shared that he had been diagnosed with ALS, explaining that the condition had already begun to affect his physical strength and daily functioning. Despite the progression of the disease, he remained committed to his profession and used his platform to raise awareness about ALS, advocating for increased research, medical support, and public understanding. His candor about the physical and emotional challenges of the illness resonated deeply with fans and colleagues.
Dane is survived by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia. Throughout his illness, he frequently expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of his family, who remained central to his life and public statements. Following his passing, the family released a message of appreciation for the compassion and kindness shown by supporters around the world while requesting privacy during their time of mourning.
Tributes from fellow actors, industry professionals, and longtime collaborators have highlighted not only Dane’s talent but also his generosity, professionalism, and authenticity. Many described him as a deeply committed artist who brought both intensity and warmth to every project.
Eric Dane’s legacy endures through a body of work that continues to reach audiences worldwide and through his courageous advocacy during his final years. He will be remembered not only for his unforgettable screen performances, but for the strength, dignity, and humanity with which he faced one of life’s most difficult challenges.
