Sad news hit Hollywood today. Eric Dane, the actor many loved as “McSteamy” on Grey’s Anatomy, has passed away. He was 53 years old. His family shared that he died on Thursday afternoon after fighting ALS, also called Lou Gehrig’s disease.
His publicist confirmed the news. The family said in a statement: “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.” They asked for privacy as they go through this hard time.
Eric first told everyone about his ALS in April 2025. He opened up on Good Morning America about how it started with weakness in his right hand. He became a strong voice for more research and awareness. He even went to Washington, DC last year to push for better laws to help people with ALS. He wanted to see his girls grow upโgraduate college, get married, maybe have kids of their own. He said he would fight to his last breath.
Fans know him best from Grey’s Anatomy. He played Dr. Mark Sloan starting in 2006. He stayed on the show for many seasons and came back for a guest spot in 2021. His charm and good looks earned him the nickname McSteamy. People loved his role as the plastic surgeon with a big heart.
Before that, he had small parts in shows like The Wonder Years and Roseanne. He was on Charmed as Jason Dean. He also acted in movies like X-Men: The Last Stand, Marley & Me, and Burlesque.
More recently, he played Cal Jacobs on Euphoria. That was a tough dad role in the HBO series with Zendaya. He was set to return for the final season.
Just last fall, he did a guest spot on Brilliant Minds as a firefighter living with ALS. The show’s team said he was excited to take on the part and bring real feeling to it.
Eric’s death comes less than a year after he shared his diagnosis. ALS is a tough disease that affects nerves and muscles over time. He faced it with bravery and tried to help others going through the same thing.
Many in the industry and fans are sharing love and memories online. His work touched so many people through funny, dramatic, and heartfelt moments on screen.
This is a big loss for TV fans everywhere. Eric Dane left a mark with his talent and his fight off-screen. He will be remembered for his roles and for how he handled a hard battle with grace. Our thoughts go out to his wife, daughters, and everyone who loved him.