Actor Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the television series “Grey’s Anatomy,” has died at the age of 53 after a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to multiple news reports. The diagnosis was made public less than a year before his death.
Dane’s passing was reported by NPR, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, PBS, and People magazine, among other outlets. He also starred in the HBO series “Euphoria.”
The first symptom that led to Dane’s ALS diagnosis was weakness in his right hand, he revealed in a recent interview with Good Morning America. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually death.
Prior to his death, Dane recorded an emotional video message to his daughters, urging them to “fight” and “live with your head held high,” as reported by VRT. The video was released following his passing.
Actor Johnny Depp reportedly provided financial assistance to Dane by allowing him to live rent-free in one of his Los Angeles villas, according to GVA. This support helped alleviate Dane’s financial concerns during his illness.
Following the news of his death, Adil El Arbi, a director known for his work on “Bad Boys for Life” and “Ms. Marvel,” posted a tribute to Dane, referring to him as a “brother,” according to HLN. Gert Verhulst, a Belgian television personality, was also reported to be with Dane’s family in Scotland at the time of his death.
Friends of Eric Dane have initiated a fundraising campaign to support his daughters, as reported by NieuwsbladBV 24/7.
