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Eric Dane, 'Grey's Anatomy' Star, Dies at 53 After ALS Battle
The Bay Area native was known for his roles as 'McSteamy' and Cal Jacobs before his death from respiratory failure.
Mar. 3, 2026 at 11:37pm
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Eric Dane, the actor best known for his roles on 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Euphoria', has died at the age of 53 after a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Dane grew up in the San Francisco Peninsula, attending Sequoia High School and San Mateo High School, before launching his acting career in the early 1990s. After his ALS diagnosis in 2024, Dane became an advocate for the ALS community, partnering with nonprofits to raise funds for research and awareness.
Why it matters
Dane's passing is a significant loss for the entertainment industry and the ALS community. As a prominent actor who used his platform to advocate for ALS research and support, his death shines a light on the devastating impact of the disease and the importance of continued efforts to find a cure.
The details
Dane was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in November 2024. The fatal condition affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, impacting muscle control. Despite his diagnosis, Dane remained active in the ALS community, partnering with nonprofits like Target ALS and I AM ALS to raise funds for research and awareness. He was named Advocate of the Year by the ALS Network in 2025.
- Eric Dane attended Sequoia High School in Redwood City from 1987 to 1990.
- Dane transferred to San Mateo High School during his senior year.
- Dane booked his first onscreen role as a volleyball player on 'Saved by the Bell' in 1991.
- Dane was diagnosed with ALS in November 2024.
- Dane passed away on February 19, 2026 at the age of 53.
The players
Eric Dane
An American actor best known for his roles on 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Euphoria'. Dane grew up in the San Francisco Peninsula and was diagnosed with ALS in 2024.
Sequoia High School
A high school in Redwood City, California where Dane attended from 1987 to 1990.
San Mateo High School
A high school in San Mateo, California where Dane transferred to during his senior year.
Target ALS
A nonprofit organization that Dane partnered with to launch a campaign to raise funds for ALS research.
I AM ALS
An advocacy organization that Dane served as a spokesperson for, helping to raise over $200,000 for their 'Push for Progress' campaign.
What’s next
The ALS community continues to mourn Dane's passing and will likely continue to honor his legacy through ongoing advocacy and fundraising efforts.
The takeaway
Dane's story highlights the devastating impact of ALS and the importance of raising awareness and funding for research to find a cure. His advocacy work demonstrated the power of using one's platform to drive meaningful change and support those affected by this debilitating disease.
