Eric Dane, the actor widely recognized for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy” and more recently for his perform in the HBO series “Euphoria,” has died at the age of 53, his publicist confirmed Thursday.
Dane’s death followed a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative condition. He publicly announced his diagnosis in April 2025, and quickly became an advocate for raising awareness and funding research into the disease.
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” his family said in a statement provided to CBS News and other media outlets. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.”
Born in San Francisco, Dane began his television career with a guest appearance on “Saved by the Bell” in 1991. However, he achieved widespread recognition with his portrayal of the charismatic and often controversial Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed “McSteamy,” on “Grey’s Anatomy” beginning in 2006. He appeared in 139 episodes of the series before departing in 2021. More recently, he took on the role of Cal Jacobs in the critically acclaimed HBO drama “Euphoria.”
ALS impacts the nervous system, progressively destroying the nerve cells responsible for controlling muscle movement. Symptoms include difficulty walking, speaking, and eventually breathing. The cause of ALS remains unknown, and there is currently no cure. According to the ALS Association, approximately one in 300 Americans are affected by the disease.
Dane is survived by his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters. Gayheart and Dane had reconciled after she initially filed for divorce in 2018, citing irreconcilable differences, but ultimately decided to remain together following his ALS diagnosis. “We are best of friends. We are really close,” Gayheart said in April 2025. “We are great co-parents. I reckon it’s important to not glance at a relationship that ends as a failure.”
His family’s statement emphasized his dedication to advocating for ALS awareness and research during his illness. “Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. 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.”
