Eric Dane, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star, Dies at 53 Following ALS Battle
Published February 27, 2026 at 3:34 AM PST
Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on the long-running ABC medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has died at the age of 53. The actor passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease .
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Pays Tribute
Grey’s Anatomy honored Dane in Thursday night’s episode with a 60-second montage of memorable moments featuring his character, Dr. McSteamy. The tribute included iconic lines and footage spanning his seven seasons on the show (2006-2012, with a reprise in 2021) . The montage was set to a cover of “Chasing Cars” by Tommee Profitt and Flowery, a song previously used in a 400th episode celebration in 2022.
The show’s official Instagram page posted the video with the caption, “In loving memory of Eric Dane. ❤️”
ALS Diagnosis and Advocacy
Dane announced his ALS diagnosis less than a year before his death . Throughout his battle with the disease, he became a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same challenges. He was scheduled to be honored with the Dean and Kathleen Rasmussen Advocate of the Year Award at an ALS Network gala but had to withdraw due to the physical realities of living with ALS .
In an October interview with The Washington Post, Dane discussed the difficulties of living with ALS, recounting an incident where he required stitches after a fall in his kitchen, coinciding with the Emmys.
Early Life and Career
Dane gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy. His character’s departure from the show after a plane crash led to Seattle Grace Hospital being renamed Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. He also starred as Cal Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria from 2019 until his death .
Family
Eric Dane is survived by his two daughters, Billie and Georgia, and his wife, Rebecca Gayheart . His representatives requested privacy for the family during this difficult time.