Highlights:
- Eric Dane dies at 53 after battling ALS.
- Eric Dane publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis in 2025.
- Best known for playing Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy.
- Starred in Euphoria and The Last Ship.
- Survived by daughters Billie and Georgia.
Eric Dane died following what his family described as a “courageous battle with ALS.” According to the family statement, Eric Dane spent his final days surrounded by close friends, his devoted wife, and his two daughters, Billie and Georgia, who “were the center of his world.”
After Eric Dane disclosed his ALS diagnosis in 2025, he became an advocate for ALS awareness and research. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Following his diagnosis, Eric Dane used his platform to raise awareness about the disease.
The family of Eric Dane has requested privacy as they mourn his death.
Early Life and Path to Acting
Eric Dane was born in San Francisco in 1972. At the age of 7, he experienced a personal tragedy when his father died from a gunshot wound. In later interviews, Eric Dane said the loss shaped him deeply, though he did not fully understand its impact until he became a father.
Eric Dane discovered acting during high school after being cast in a school production of “All My Sons.” That experience led Eric Dane to pursue acting more seriously. He later moved to Los Angeles with limited financial resources to build his career in television.
In the early years, Eric Dane appeared in guest roles on several television series, including Saved by the Bell, The Wonder Years, Roseanne, and Married… with Children. He also had a recurring role on Charmed. These appearances helped establish Eric Dane as a working actor in Hollywood before his breakout role.
Breakthrough Role on Grey’s Anatomy
Eric Dane’s career changed in 2006 when he joined the second season of Grey’s Anatomy as Dr. Mark Sloan. Initially introduced as a recurring character, Mark Sloan quickly became a series regular due to strong viewer response.
The character, nicknamed “McSteamy” by fans, became one of the show’s most recognized figures. Eric Dane’s portrayal of Mark Sloan included complex storylines involving relationships and personal growth. His performance made him a prominent figure in prime-time television.
Eric Dane left Grey’s Anatomy in 2012 after his character was written off the series. In interviews following his departure, Eric Dane acknowledged personal struggles during that period, including battles with addiction. He also said he remained grateful for his experience on the show.
Later Roles in Television and Film
After leaving Grey’s Anatomy, Eric Dane continued to work steadily in television and film. From 2014 to 2018, Eric Dane starred as Admiral Tom Chandler on The Last Ship. The role marked a shift from medical drama to action-driven storytelling.
Eric Dane later portrayed Cal Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria, playing a conflicted family man living a secret life. His role in Euphoria introduced Eric Dane to a new generation of viewers and expanded his range as an actor.
In addition to television, Eric Dane appeared in several films, including Valentine’s Day, Marley & Me, Burlesque, and Bad Boys: Ride or Die. Across genres ranging from romantic comedy to drama and action, Eric Dane maintained a consistent presence in Hollywood.
Family Life and Personal Reflections
Eric Dane married actress Rebecca Gayheart in 2004. The couple had two daughters, Billie and Georgia. In 2018, Gayheart filed for divorce, but she moved to dismiss the filing in 2025.
In his later years, Eric Dane spoke openly about personal challenges and growth. Following his ALS diagnosis, Eric Dane expressed peace with his life and career. He frequently described his daughters as his greatest joy.
Eric Dane’s legacy includes a wide body of work across network television, cable series, and film. From his defining role on Grey’s Anatomy to his later performances in Euphoria and beyond, Eric Dane remained a recognizable figure in American entertainment.
Eric Dane is survived by his daughters, Billie and Georgia.
