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

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Eric Dane, the celebrated actor best known for his roles on Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, died on Thursday at the age of 53 from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Dane had announced his ALS diagnosis less than a year ago and spent his final days surrounded by loved ones.

Why it matters

Dane's death highlights the devastating impact of ALS, a progressive and fatal neurological disease that attacks nerve cells controlling muscles. As a high-profile actor, Dane used his platform to raise awareness and advocate for ALS research in his final months.

The details

Dane developed a devoted fanbase when he was cast as Dr. Mark Sloan, aka McSteamy, on the hit medical drama Grey's Anatomy, a role he played from 2006 to 2012 and reprised in 2021. In 2019, he took on a very different role as the troubled Cal Jacobs in HBO's Euphoria, which he continued until his death. In April 2025, Dane announced he had been diagnosed with ALS, a disease that gradually destroys the nerve cells and connections needed to walk, talk, speak and breathe. Most ALS patients die within three to five years of diagnosis.

• In April 2025, Dane announced he had been diagnosed with ALS.
• On February 20, 2026, Dane died from the disease at the age of 53.

What’s next

Dane's memoir, 'Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments', is scheduled to be published in late 2026 by Maria Shriver's The Open Field, a Penguin Random House imprint.