Eric Dane, the American actor best known for his iconic role as Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed “McSteamy”, on the long‑running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has died at the age of 53 following a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), his family and multiple news outlets confirmed.
Dane passed away on February 19, 2026, in Los Angeles, less than a year after publicly disclosing his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. His death coincided with the 20th anniversary of his first appearance as Dr. Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, a milestone that underscored both his legacy in television and the poignancy of his passing.
A Career That Spanned Decades
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane’s acting career began in the early 1990s with guest appearances on television shows such as Saved by the Bell and Charmed. But it was his breakout role on Grey’s Anatomy, which he first joined in 2006, that cemented his status as a household name. As Dr. Mark Sloan, Dane brought charisma, warmth, and complexity to a character beloved by fans around the world.
Over seven seasons on Grey’s Anatomy, Dane’s portrayal of the confident yet vulnerable plastic surgeon made him a standout in one of television’s most successful dramas. His role resonated with audiences and helped shape the show’s early narrative arc. Though his character met a dramatic on‑screen end in the ninth season, Dane returned for a memorable cameo in 2021, reminding fans of his enduring appeal.
Beyond Grey’s Anatomy, Dane also built a diverse body of work in film and television. He appeared in major motion pictures such as X‑Men: The Last Stand and Valentine’s Day, and starred as Captain Tom Chandler in The Last Ship. In recent years, he added depth to the critically acclaimed HBO series Euphoria, portraying Cal Jacobs, the troubled father of one of the show’s central characters.
Battling ALS with Courage and Advocacy
In April 2025, Dane revealed he had been diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The condition, sometimes referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, gradually robbed him of muscle control and mobility. Despite a rapid decline in his physical abilities, including the loss of function in his right arm and use of a wheelchair, Dane continued his work and used his public platform to raise awareness about ALS and the urgent need for research.
Dane’s advocacy extended beyond Hollywood. He participated in virtual panels for ALS organizations and even traveled to Washington, D.C., to support legislation aimed at expanding access to treatments and research funding for ALS patients. His efforts were widely praised by fans and fellow advocates alike, highlighting his commitment to using his experience to help others facing the disease.
Tributes from Fans and Colleagues
Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry. Grey’s Anatomy producers and castmates released a joint statement honoring Dane’s “remarkable talent and unforgettable presence” on the show, praising both his artistic contributions and his personal courage in the face of illness.
Patrick Dempsey, who starred opposite Dane for many seasons, shared heartfelt memories of their time on set, recalling Dane’s infectious humor and generosity. Fans also took to social media to celebrate his legacy, sharing favorite moments from his career and expressing gratitude for the joy and inspiration he brought to viewers over the years.
Legacy and Final Work
At the time of his death, Dane had completed filming his role in the third season of Euphoria, ensuring that his final performance will be seen and appreciated by audiences in the coming year. His dedication to his craft, even as his health declined, was noted by Euphoria creator Sam Levinson, who described it as an honor to work with Dane and expressed deep sadness at his passing.
Eric Dane’s body of work reflects a career marked by versatility, passion, and a deep connection with audiences. From memorable television characters to advocacy work that transcended the screen, his legacy will endure across the entertainment landscape and within the hearts of his fans.
His family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss.