Eric Dane, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star, Dies at 53 Following ALS Battle
Eric Dane, celebrated for his roles on “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria,” and who later became an advocate for ALS awareness, died Thursday, February 19, 2026. He was 53.
Dane’s family released a statement to CBS News, saying, “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.”
The statement continued, “Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight.” The family added that he will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered, and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support he received. They have requested privacy during this difficult time.
ALS Diagnosis and Advocacy
Dane first announced his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in April 2025. CBS News reports that the disease progressively worsened, leading him to cancel several public appearances.
In January 2026, Dane had to withdraw from the ALS Network’s Champions for Cures and Care Gala, where he was to be honored with the Dean and Kathleen Rasmussen Advocate of the Year Award, “due to the physical realities of ALS.” USA Today noted this came after he was unable to attend the 2025 Emmy Awards due to a fall and subsequent medical treatment.
Despite the challenges, Dane expressed a strong desire to continue fighting the illness, telling The Washington Post in October 2025, “I have two daughters at home. I want to observe them, you know, graduate college, and get married and maybe have grandkids. You know, I want to be there for all that. So I’m going to fight to the last breath on this one.”
Personal Life and Career
Eric Dane married actress Rebecca Gayheart in 2004, and they share two daughters, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13. Gayheart had filed for divorce in 2018, but dismissed the filing in March 2025, shortly before Dane’s ALS diagnosis. NBC News reports that Gayheart had previously spoken about her continued support for Dane, despite their separation.
Dane began his acting career in the early 1990s, with guest roles on shows like “Saved by the Bell,” “Married…With Children,” and “Charmed.” He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan, known as “McSteamy,” on “Grey’s Anatomy” from 2006 to 2012, with a reprise in 2021. More recently, he played Cal Jacobs in HBO’s “Euphoria” from 2019 until his death. BBC News highlighted these key roles in his career.
He also appeared in films such as “X-Men: Last Stand” (2006) and “Burlesque” (2010).