Known to the world as McSteamy, Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane has passed away at just 53 years of age.
Just 10 months prior, Eric went public with his ALS diagnosis. His family confirmed that his cause of death is complications from ALS.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter,” Eric said at the time; however, he confirmed he would continue acting despite his diagnosis.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, specifically the motor neurons – the cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement.
Born on November 9, 1972, in San Francisco, California, Eric William Dane began acting in the 1990s, landing guest roles on popular TV series before breaking into mainstream success.
Eric became a household name playing Dr Mark Sloan, aka “McSteamy”, on Grey’s Anatomy. He joined the show in 2006 and quickly became a fan favourite thanks to his charismatic yet complicated persona. His character remained central to the series for several seasons.
After Grey’s Anatomy, he took on darker, more intense characters, including Captain Tom Chandler in The Last Ship and Cal Jacobs in Euphoria. His most recent television role was guest-starring on NBC’s Brilliant Minds. He portrayed a firefighter who was also dealing with a neurodegenerative disease. Following his scenes, he received a 10-minute standing ovation for his performance from the crew.
Eric Dane’s wife was actress Rebecca Gayheart. The couple share two daughters, Billie Beatrice and Georgia Geraldine, and has had an on-again, off-again relationship over the years.
“It’s a very complicated relationship, one that’s confusing for people. Our love may not be romantic, but it’s a familial love,” Rebecca shared in an interview with The Cut.
“Eric knows that I am always going to want the best for him. That I’m going to do my best to do right by him. And I know he would do the same for me. So whatever I can do or however I can show up to make this journey better for him or easier for him, I want to do that. And I want to model that for my girls: That’s what you do. That’s the right thing to do.”
The two tied the knot on October 29, 2004, and separated in 2017. However, in March 2025, Rebecca filed a request for a dismissal of the divorce.
In a statement to People, Eric Dane’s family wrote:
“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 centre 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.”
