Grey's Anatomy Star Kate Walsh Pays Tribute to Eric Dane After His Death

The actress honored her former onscreen love interest following his passing at 53 after a battle with ALS.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Grey's Anatomy star Kate Walsh took to Instagram to pay tribute to her former co-star and onscreen love interest Eric Dane, who died at the age of 53 after a battle with ALS. Walsh reflected on her early memories of working with Dane on the show and praised his sensitivity, vulnerability, and talent as an actor. She also encouraged her followers to support organizations working to find a cure for the debilitating disease.

Why it matters

Eric Dane's passing is a significant loss for the Grey's Anatomy community, as he was a beloved and integral part of the show's early seasons. His battle with ALS also shines a light on the devastating impact of the disease and the ongoing need for research and support for those affected.

The details

In her Instagram post, Walsh shared a series of photos featuring Dane, herself, and other Grey's Anatomy cast members. She recalled her first scene with Dane, where she was initially unsure of his acting abilities but was quickly impressed. Walsh also spoke about the close-knit nature of the Grey's Anatomy cast in the early days, and how Dane was a source of support and love off-set.

  • Eric Dane died on Thursday, February 20, 2026.
  • Kate Walsh posted her tribute on Instagram on Friday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Kate Walsh

An actress who played Dr. Addison Montgomery on the medical drama Grey's Anatomy, and was a co-star and onscreen love interest of Eric Dane's character, Dr. Mark 'McSteamy' Sloan.

Eric Dane

An actor who played Dr. Mark 'McSteamy' Sloan on Grey's Anatomy from 2006 to 2012, and later returned for a surprise appearance in 2021. He passed away at the age of 53 after a battle with ALS.

Rebecca Gayheart

The mother of Eric Dane's two daughters, Billie and Georgia.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm at a loss for words to try to express the sadness around Eric's passing.”

— Kate Walsh (Instagram)

“First and foremost I am thinking of his girls and Rebecca and holding them in my prayers and my heart.”

— Kate Walsh (Instagram)

“One of the things I loved about Eric was his sensitivity and vulnerability, (and intelligence, of course) but he had the gravitas & old soul that made his work magnetic and made him a great friend off set.”

— Kate Walsh (Instagram)

What’s next

Fans and the Grey's Anatomy community are expected to continue honoring Eric Dane's memory and legacy, and supporting organizations working to find a cure for ALS.

The takeaway

Eric Dane's passing is a profound loss for the Grey's Anatomy family and the entertainment industry as a whole. His talent, sensitivity, and dedication to raising awareness about ALS will be deeply missed, and his impact on the show and its fans will continue to be felt for years to come.