'Grey's Anatomy' Star Eric Dane Dies At 53, Months After Announcing ALS Diagnosis, How Did He Die?

Eric Dane, the widely loved actor who earned the title of "McSteamy" for his iconic role as 'Dr. Mark Sloan' on Grey's Anatomy, is no more. Just 10 months after publicly revealing his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), he lost his battle at the age of 53. In his final days, Dane was actively working towards supporting ALS treatment.

How did Eric Dane die?

Eric Dane's passing has been confirmed by his grieving family. In a statement recently shared with PEOPLE, Dane's family shared that the actor passed away following a courageous battle with ALS, and his health was deteriorating. While there has been no official confirmation of exactly how he died, the family shared that he passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in the afternoon. The family's statement reads:

"With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. 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. 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.”

In his final days, Eric Dane had been under 24/7 care, given his rapidly deteriorating health. For those unaware, ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that gradually damages the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Beginning with muscle weakness and stiffness, the body deteriorates, leading to paralysis, and eventually problems with swallowing and breathing. 

Towards the end, Dane had lost the ability to walk and was no longer able to use his right arm. His speech had become increasingly slurred, and he required round-the-clock care as his motor functions were impacted. He was being cared for by his estranged wife, Rebecca Gayheart, who had remained close with him even after filing for a divorce in 2017, which was never finalised. He is survived by Rebecca and his daughters, Billie and Georgia.

Who was Eric Dane?

Eric Dane's path to stardom was anything but ordinary. Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane began his journey as a water polo player, until he found his love and talent in acting after landing a role in All My Sons. He once shared that he moved to Los Angeles with just USD 40 in his pocket, struggling to find work in Hollywood. He started with small roles on television shows such as Charmed and Roseanne, before he landed his career-defining role in Grey's Anatomy.

In 2006, Dane joined the popular medical drama as 'Dr. Mark Sloan', and he became an overnight sensation as 'McSteamy'. What many may not know, his stint in Grey’s Anatomy was originally meant to be short-term. As the show's ratings blew up, he became a vital character and was thrust into a global "sexy man" status. Dane left the show in 2012.

Eric Dane had long been healthy, with few medical concerns, until subtle changes began to appear. In her essay, titled "In Sickness and in Health," published in The Cut on December 29, 2025, Rebecca Gayheart recalled Dane fumbling with chopsticks and dropping food during family meals with their children. At the time, the signs went unexplained. Looking back, she now recognises them as early symptoms of ALS. Despite different initial diagnoses, he knew something was seriously wrong.

Before his passing, Dane was working on Euphoria season 3 and the NBC medical drama Brilliant Minds, where he was playing a character living with ALS. 

Rest in peace, dear 'McSteamy'. 

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