Eric Dane, the actor widely recognized for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan on the television series “Grey’s Anatomy” and, more recently, Cal Jacobs in “Euphoria,” died Thursday afternoon at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), his family announced.
Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis in April 2025, becoming a vocal advocate for ALS awareness and research in the months that followed. His family’s statement, provided to CBS News, noted he spent his final days surrounded by his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, and close friends.
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” the family said. “He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane began his television career in 1993 with an appearance in “The Wonder Years.” He gained prominence with roles in “Charmed” and “The Last Ship,” alongside his decade-long run on “Grey’s Anatomy,” beginning in 2006. More recently, he appeared in NBC’s “Brilliant Minds” portraying a firefighter diagnosed with ALS and was slated to reprise his role as Cal Jacobs in the upcoming third season of HBO’s “Euphoria.”
Throughout his fight with the disease, Dane actively sought to raise awareness and push for research. In September 2025, he met with Representative Eric Swalwell of California to discuss the condition, vowing to “ring every bell” and expressing his desire to witness his daughters’ future milestones, according to footage shared by Swalwell on TikTok.
Speaking at an I Am ALS-hosted panel in December, Dane reiterated his commitment to continuing his work despite the physical challenges posed by the disease. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The ALS Association estimates that approximately 1 in 300 Americans are affected by the condition. According to the Cleveland Clinic, life expectancy following diagnosis is typically three to five years.
Dane’s “Grey’s Anatomy” co-star Patrick Dempsey described him as “a joy to work with” in tributes following the announcement of his death.
