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

Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the television series “Grey’s Anatomy,” has died at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His family confirmed his death on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

Diagnosis and Advocacy

Dane publicly announced his ALS diagnosis in April 2025 [CBS News]. Throughout his journey with the disease, he became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same challenges [CBS News]. He was to be honored with the Dean and Kathleen Rasmussen Advocate of the Year Award by the ALS Network, but had to withdraw due to the physical realities of living with ALS [USA Today].

Family and Final Days

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” his family said in a statement [CBS News]. He spent his final days surrounded by his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world [CBS News]. Dane and Gayheart had strengthened their relationship, becoming better friends and co-parents, with Gayheart being his “biggest champion” and “most stalwart supporter” [TODAY].

Career Highlights

Dane gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan, also known as “McSteamy,” on “Grey’s Anatomy,” beginning in 2006 [BBC News]. He also appeared in the HBO series “Euphoria” as Cal Jacobs, and had roles in films such as “X-Men: Last Stand” and “Burlesque” [CBS News]. His television career began in 1993 with a role in “The Wonder Years,” and included appearances in “Charmed” and “The Last Ship” [BBC News].

ALS and its Impact

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord [CBS News]. It impacts muscle control and currently has no cure. According to the ALS Association, about 1 in 300 Americans are affected by the disease [CBS News]. The life expectancy following an ALS diagnosis is typically three to five years [CBS News].

Tributes from Colleagues

Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from fellow actors and industry professionals. Alyssa Milano, who co-starred with Dane on “Charmed,” remembered his humor and tenderness [USA Today]. Ashton Kutcher shared a tribute on X, referencing their time together in a fantasy football league [USA Today]. Maria Shriver, whose publishing imprint was preparing to release Dane’s memoir, “Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments,” praised his courage and advocacy [USA Today]. Other tributes came from Nina Dobrev, Sam Levinson, Kevin McKidd, Sarah Drew, Krista Vernoff, Selma Blair, Paul Walter Hauser, John Stamos, Martin Lawrence, Frank Grillo, and Alexander Ludwig [USA Today]. Patrick Dempsey spoke of his sadness and the impact of the disease on Dane’s ability to speak in the weeks before his death [TODAY].