Eric Dane, best known for his roles as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy and Cal Jacobs on Euphoria, has died at the age of 53 following a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His death was confirmed by his family and representatives on Thursday, February 19, 2026, and came less than a year after Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis.
In a statement, Dane’s family said he spent his final days surrounded by loved ones, including his devoted wife and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia who were the center of his world. They asked for privacy as they navigate the difficult time. Dane’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from co-stars, friends and fans. Many have celebrated his warmth, humor and talent both on and off screen.
Public Fight With ALS and Advocacy
Dane publicly announced his ALS diagnosis in April 2025, revealing he had been experiencing symptoms for months before seeking medical help. Less than one year later, his health deteriorated rapidly due to the progressive and incurable neurological condition that attacks motor neurons — nerve cells that control muscle movement — eventually impacting speech, mobility and breathing. Despite his illness, he continued to share parts of his journey and became an advocate for ALS awareness. Dane used his platform to speak about the disease in public settings and to support research and patient needs. Before his death, he was honored by the ALS community for his commitment to raising awareness and supporting others living with the disease.
Career Highlights and Final Projects
- Dane grew up in San Francisco and rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his breakout role on Grey’s Anatomy, where his character McSteamy became a fan favorite. Later, he gained a new generation of followers for his role as Cal Jacobs on HBO’s Euphoria.
- Remarkably, Dane continued working after his diagnosis, returning to the set of Euphoria and completing filming for its upcoming third season despite his advancing symptoms.
- His dedication to his craft, even as the disease progressed, was widely praised by colleagues and fans alike.
Tributes From Hollywood
Tributes from the entertainment world have highlighted both his professional talent and his personal kindness. Actors such as Ashton Kutcher, Nina Dobrev, Kim Raver and Alyssa Milano shared heartfelt messages remembering Dane’s generosity, sense of humor and impact on their lives. Co-stars from Grey’s Anatomy and other projects reflected on their time with him and the profound loss his passing represents to the industry.
Legacy and Family
Eric Dane is survived by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughters. The family’s statement emphasized his passion for advocacy, his love for his fans, and the meaningful work he continued to do even while seriously ill. His legacy extends beyond memorable performances — his openness about ALS raised public awareness of a disease that remains poorly understood, bringing attention to patients and families affected by the condition.
