Eric Dane, the actor celebrated for his roles as Dr. Mark Sloan on “Grey’s Anatomy” and Cal Jacobs on “Euphoria,” died Thursday afternoon at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), his representatives confirmed.
Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis in April 2025, and quickly became an advocate for ALS awareness and research. “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,” a statement from his representatives read. “Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to craft 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.”
The outpouring of grief from Hollywood was swift and widespread. Sam Levinson, the creator of “Euphoria,” described Dane as a “dear friend,” stating, “Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift. Eric’s family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing.” HBO and the present’s official Instagram account jointly posted, expressing deep sadness and acknowledging Dane’s talent, noting HBO was “fortunate to have worked with him on three seasons of Euphoria.”
Fellow “Grey’s Anatomy” cast members also shared tributes. Kevin McKidd, who played Dr. Owen Hunt, wrote “Rest in Peace Buddy” on Instagram. James Pickens Jr., who portrayed Dr. Richard Webber, posted simply, “Rest in Peace.” Sarah Drew, who played Dr. April Kepner, shared a similar message on her Instagram Story.
Alyssa Milano, who worked with Dane on the series “Charmed,” remembered his sharp wit and playful nature. “I can’t stop seeing that spark in Eric’s eye right before he’d say something that would either make you spit out your drink or rethink your entire perspective,” she wrote in a tribute. She also highlighted his devotion to his family, noting how his demeanor softened when speaking of his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughters. “He carried them with him even in rooms where they weren’t present. You could see it in the way his voice changed when he said their names.”
Nina Dobrev, who starred alongside Dane in the 2022 film “Redeeming Love,” described him as “warm, generous, prepared, and so passionate about what he did.” She added, “He led with kindness and made everyone on our set feel seen. ALS is a cruel and unforgiving disease. May his memory inspire more research, awareness, and progress toward a cure. He will be deeply missed.”
Michael Grassi, creator of “Brilliant Minds,” praised Dane as a “TV icon” and described working with him as “the greatest honor of my career.” He added, “Not only was he a tremendous talent, he was also generous, kind and brave.” Dane had previously guest-starred in a second-season episode of “Brilliant Minds” that focused on ALS.
Alexander Ludwig, who appeared with Dane in the 2024 film “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” expressed his sorrow on Instagram, stating, “Ugh this hurts so much. Will miss you Eric and loved our time together. You were a joy to work with.” Selma Blair, who shared a scene with Dane in the 2000 sitcom “Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane,” posted a clip from the show with the message, “I love you. And yours.” Travis Van Winkle, Dane’s co-star on “The Last Ship,” shared that he “learned so much” from the actor, calling him a “great man.”
Ashton Kutcher, posting on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledged the loss within the Franklin strip fanatics fantasy football league, writing, “The Franklin strip fanatics fantasy football league will miss Mr. Eric Dane. We understand you’ll be watching from the booth. Miss you, buddy. Let’s keep fighting the fight to solve ALS.”
Maria Shriver shared on X that she was “heartbroken” by the news, praising Dane’s courage in speaking about his diagnosis and noting that he had chosen her publishing imprint to publish his memoir. She posted a photo of the memoir, but did not provide a release date.
Robert Patrick posted on X, “Eric Dane was a good man. We weren’t lifelong friends, but we crossed paths enough for me to know his strength and his heart. ALS is merciless. My thoughts are with his family. Rest easy.”