The television world is mourning the loss of Eric Dane, who died Thursday afternoon at the age of 53 following a battle with ALS. The actor, best known for playing Dr. Mark Sloan, famously nicknamed “McSteamy,”
on Grey’s Anatomy, had revealed in April 2025 that he had been diagnosed with the rare degenerative disease.
In a statement released after his passing, his representatives shared heartfelt words about his final days. “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,” the statement read. “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.”
Tributes Pour In After Eric Dane’s Death
Dane built a career that stretched across genres. Along with his beloved role on Grey’s Anatomy, he portrayed Cal Jacobs in Euphoria and commanding officer Tom Chandler in The Last Ship. Each character showed a different side of his range, from complex anti-hero to steady leader. Tributes quickly poured in from friends and colleagues across Hollywood.
Sam Levinson, creator of Euphoria, shared his grief in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric. Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift. Eric’s family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing.”
The official Instagram accounts for Euphoria and HBO also released a joint message: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Eric Dane’s passing. He was incredibly talented and HBO was fortunate to have worked with him on three seasons of Euphoria. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”
Actress Nina Dobrev, who starred alongside Dane in the 2022 film Redeeming Love, remembered him fondly. “Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Eric. He was warm, generous, prepared, and so passionate about what he did. He led with kindness and made everyone on our set feel seen. ALS is a cruel and unforgiving disease. May his memory inspire more research, awareness, and progress toward a cure. He will be deeply missed. Sending love and heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Ashton Kutcher wrote on X, “The Franklin strip fanatics fantasy football league will miss Mr. Eric Dane. We know you’ll be watching from the booth. Miss you, buddy. Let’s keep fighting the fight to solve ALS.”
The Franklin strip fanatics fantasy football league will miss Mr. Eric Dane. We know you’ll be watching from the booth. Miss you, buddy. Let’s keep fighting the fight to solve ALS. pic.twitter.com/00TtwmQHAK
— ashton kutcher (@aplusk) February 20, 2026
Meanwhile, John Stamos shared on Instagram, “RIP, Buddy. Me and @realericdane played brothers years ago in a beautiful movie called, Wedding Wars. Good guy. Too soon. Xo J.”
Dane And Ellen Pompeo Conversation
Back in January, Dane’s Grey’s Anatomy co-star Ellen Pompeo spoke about her friendship with the actor. The actress sent a pre-tapped message to Dane for the ALS Network Champions for Cures & Care Gala. “As soon as I heard about his diagnosis, I texted him, and I said, ‘I’m here if you want to speak,’ and my phone rang 30 seconds later.” She added, “I remember when he came in as McSteamy and us having instant electric chemistry, and I immediately just fell in love with him.”
As fans revisit his work and co-stars continue to share memories, Dane is being remembered not just for the roles that made him a household name, but for the warmth and generosity that defined him off-screen.
