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

Katherine Heigl pens emotional tribute to her former co-star, highlighting his talent and humanity.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running medical drama Grey's Anatomy, has passed away at the age of 53 following a battle with ALS. Dane's former co-star Katherine Heigl shared a heartfelt tribute, expressing her discomfort with public grief but acknowledging the profound impact Dane had on those who knew him. Other Grey's Anatomy cast members, including Patrick Dempsey and Shonda Rhimes, also paid tribute to Dane's talent, bravery, and humanity.

Why it matters

Dane's passing has prompted an outpouring of remembrance from the entertainment industry, highlighting the lasting impact he made through his work and the connections he fostered with his colleagues. His battle with ALS also brought attention to the devastating disease and the importance of supporting research and awareness.

The details

Dane was diagnosed with ALS in April 2025 and his condition rapidly deteriorated in the final months of his life. His former co-star Patrick Dempsey revealed that Dane had lost the ability to speak and was bedridden in his final days, but that he bravely used his platform to raise awareness about the disease.

  • Dane was diagnosed with ALS in April 2025.
  • Dane passed away in February 2026 at the age of 53.

The players

Eric Dane

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

Katherine Heigl

An American actress who co-starred with Dane on Grey's Anatomy and shared a heartfelt tribute to him after his passing.

Patrick Dempsey

An American actor who played Dr. Derek Shepherd on Grey's Anatomy and shared details about Dane's final days.

Shonda Rhimes

The creator and showrunner of Grey's Anatomy, who praised Dane's talent and impact on the show.

Kate Walsh

An American actress who co-starred with Dane on Grey's Anatomy and shared a personal anecdote about their first scene together.

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What they’re saying

“I will never forget Eric's gold and I will forever be grateful I got to bask in it for even a brief moment in time.”

— Katherine Heigl (Instagram)

“I spoke to him about a week ago, and some friends of ours went in to see him, and he was really starting to lose his ability to speak. He was bedridden, and it was very hard for him to swallow. So the quality of his life was deteriorating so rapidly.”

— Patrick Dempsey, Actor (The Chris Evans Breakfast Show)

“Eric was truly a gifted actor whose portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan left an indelible mark on the series and on audiences around the world. We are grateful for the artistry, spirit, friendship and humanity he shared with us for so many years. Our hearts are with his family, loved ones, and all who were touched by his work.”

— Shonda Rhimes, Creator and Showrunner of Grey's Anatomy (Social media)

What’s next

Dane's family and colleagues are expected to hold a memorial service to celebrate his life and legacy in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Eric Dane's passing has highlighted the profound impact he had on his colleagues and fans, both through his memorable performances and the genuine connections he fostered. His brave fight against ALS has also brought greater attention to the need for research and support for those affected by the devastating disease.