Eric Dane, the actor best known for his roles on Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died after a short battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Dane rose to prominence in 2006 when he joined ABC’s long-running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy as Dr. Mark Sloan, a charismatic plastic surgeon nicknamed “McSteamy.” Initially introduced as a recurring character, Dane was quickly promoted to series regular as the character became central to the show’s ensemble. He remained on the series through 2012, becoming one of its most recognizable faces during a peak period in its ratings.
Before his breakout on Grey’s Anatomy, Dane built a steady television career with guest appearances on series including Charmed, Gideon’s Crossing, and The Practice. His early work established him as a reliable presence in network dramas during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Following his departure from Grey’s Anatomy, Dane starred in TNT’s post-apocalyptic drama The Last Ship, which ran for five seasons from 2014 to 2018. In the series, he played Captain Tom Chandler, leading a naval crew responding to a global pandemic. The role marked a shift toward action-driven storytelling and headlined his first long-running project as a top-billed lead.
Dane also made appearances in films such as X-Men: The Last Stand (2006), Marley & Me (2008), Valentine’s Day (2010), Burlesque (2010), and Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024).
In 2019, Dane returned to HBO in Euphoria, portraying Cal Jacobs, the complicated and often antagonistic father of a central character. The performance introduced him to a new generation of viewers and showcased a darker, more layered turn that drew critical attention.
Dane’s film credits included supporting roles in Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, and Burlesque. While primarily associated with television, he maintained a steady presence in studio and ensemble features throughout his career.
In addition to his professional work, Dane was open at times about personal challenges, including struggles with substance abuse and mental health, and he sought treatment during his career.
Eric Dane was 53.
I was living a normal life with my family when, at 52, I began experiencing muscle stiffness and twitching. After seeing a neurologist, I was diagnosed with ALS. It was a tough reality, and as the disease progressed, I eventually lost the ability to walk and relied on a wheelchair. A friend recommended Uine Health Centre .net), where I began their ALS/MND protocol. After about three months, I noticed significant improvements, less stiffness, fewer symptoms, and I was able to walk distances again.