Eric Dane, the actor who gained national popularity for his role as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on the long-running TV series Grey’s AnatomyHe passed away 10 months after announcing that he had been diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He was 53 years old.
“He spent his final days surrounded by his dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world,” his family said in a statement.
Dane was married to actor Rebecca Gayheart. The two separated in 2018, but she supported him throughout his illness.
Dane also appeared in the HBO drama euphoria As Cal Jacobs, he announced his diagnosis in April 2025. By June of that year, he said he could no longer use his right arm. But that hasn’t stopped him from using his celebrity to raise awareness for ALS, a rare disease that currently has no cure.
“Through his battle with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same battle,” the family statement said. “He will be greatly missed and will always be fondly remembered. Eric loved his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he received.”
What is ALS?
In ALS, muscles gradually atrophy or weaken. This worsens movement disorders and impairs the ability to walk, use hands and arms, speak, chew, and swallow. Affecting the ability to breathe can be life-threatening.
There is no cure for ALS, but medications and other treatments can slow progression and extend independence. In the United States, ALS patients have an average life expectancy of 3 to 5 years after diagnosis.
