Grey's Anatomy Star Eric Dane Dies at 53 After ALS Battle

The actor was known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running medical drama.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Actor Eric Dane, best known for his starring role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the ABC medical drama Grey's Anatomy, has died at the age of 53 after a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Dane revealed his ALS diagnosis in 2025 and spoke openly about the progression of the incurable disease. He is survived by his two daughters, whom he shared with actress Rebecca Gayheart.

Why it matters

Dane's death marks the loss of a beloved television star who captivated audiences for years as the charming and charismatic Dr. Sloan on Grey's Anatomy. His openness about his ALS diagnosis also shined a light on the devastating impacts of this terminal neurological disorder.

The details

Dane made his television debut in 1991 and rose to fame playing the role of Dr. Mark Sloan, a plastic surgeon nicknamed "McSteamy," on Grey's Anatomy from 2006 to 2012. After leaving the show, he starred in other hit series like The Last Ship and Euphoria. In addition to his TV work, Dane also had a successful film career, appearing in movies like X-Men: The Last Stand and Bad Boys: Ride or Die.

  • Dane revealed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025.
  • In June 2025, Dane told ABC's Diane Sawyer that he was rapidly losing function in his left arm.
  • In November 2025, Dane made a guest appearance on the TV drama Brilliant Minds, playing a firefighter with ALS.
  • Dane passed away on February 20, 2026.

The players

Eric Dane

An American actor best known for his starring role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running ABC medical drama Grey's Anatomy.

Rebecca Gayheart

Dane's wife, with whom he shared two daughters. Gayheart and Dane were married in 2004 but filed for divorce in 2018, though they later dismissed the petition in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“In the moment, it was just another scene to me. I just remember walking out of a bathroom where a very nice gentleman was kind of blowing smoke towards me.”

— Eric Dane, Actor (ABC News)

“It's a very complicated relationship, one that's confusing for people. Our love may not be romantic, but it's a familial love. Eric knows that I am always going to want the best for him. That I'm going to do my best to do right by him. And I know he would do the same for me.”

— Rebecca Gayheart, Dane's Wife (The Cut)

What’s next

Dane's family and friends are expected to hold a private memorial service to honor his life and legacy.

The takeaway

Dane's passing is a tragic loss for the entertainment industry, as he was a talented actor who brought joy and depth to his iconic role on Grey's Anatomy. His openness about his ALS battle also helped raise awareness about this devastating disease.