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

The cast and crew remember Dane's "remarkable talent and unforgettable presence" on the long-running medical drama.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Eric Dane, who played the beloved character of Mark Sloan aka "McSteamy" on the hit ABC series "Grey's Anatomy", has died at the age of 53 after a battle with ALS. The network and series producer 20th Television released a joint statement expressing their deep sadness over the loss and praising Dane's lasting impact on the show and its audience. The series is expected to pay tribute to Dane in an upcoming episode.

Why it matters

Dane was a popular and integral part of the "Grey's Anatomy" ensemble, appearing as a series regular for several seasons. His character, Mark Sloan, was a fan favorite and his death in the show was a major storyline. Dane's passing will be deeply felt by the show's cast, crew, and loyal fanbase.

The details

Dane was first introduced as a guest star in Season 2 of "Grey's Anatomy" before becoming a series regular the following season. He remained on the show until the Season 9 premiere, when his character Mark, along with Lexie Grey (Chyler Leigh), died as a result of the plane crash in the Season 8 finale. The characters' presence has remained on the show, as Seattle Grace Mercy West was subsequently renamed Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital in their memory. Dane and Leigh returned during the pandemic-themed 2020-21 season as part of the beach-themed dream sequences while Covid-stricken Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) was in a coma.

  • Eric Dane died on February 19, 2026 at the age of 53.
  • Dane first appeared as a guest star on "Grey's Anatomy" in Season 2.
  • Dane became a series regular on "Grey's Anatomy" starting in Season 3.
  • Dane's character Mark Sloan, along with Lexie Grey, died in the Season 8 finale plane crash.
  • Dane and Leigh returned to "Grey's Anatomy" during the 2020-21 pandemic-themed season.

The players

Eric Dane

The actor who played the beloved character of Mark Sloan aka "McSteamy" on the long-running medical drama "Grey's Anatomy".

Ellen Pompeo

The actress who plays the lead role of Meredith Grey on "Grey's Anatomy".

Chyler Leigh

The actress who played the character of Lexie Grey, who died alongside Dane's character Mark Sloan in the "Grey's Anatomy" plane crash storyline.

Kevin McKidd

A "Grey's Anatomy" cast member who co-starred alongside Dane for four seasons.

20th Television

The production company behind "Grey's Anatomy".

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What they’re saying

“Rest In Peace Buddy...”

— Kevin McKidd, Grey's Anatomy cast member (Instagram)

“Whether she's listening to me or not, you always have somebody looking over you.”

— Eric Dane (Deadline)

What’s next

Grey's Anatomy is expected to pay tribute to Eric Dane in an upcoming episode when the medical drama returns after a break.

The takeaway

Eric Dane's portrayal of the beloved character Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy left an indelible mark on the show and its fans. His passing at the age of 53 after a battle with ALS is a profound loss for the Grey's Anatomy family and the entertainment industry as a whole.