Eric Dane Dies at 52 After ALS Battle; Star of Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria Remembered

Los Angeles: The news of Eric Dane death at 52 has left fans across the world mourning the loss of an actor best known for portraying complex, charismatic characters on television. His family confirmed that he passed away on February 19 after battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Dane was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2025. Despite the progressive and incurable nature of the illness, he remained publicly engaged and became an advocate for awareness and research. According to his family, he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife and daughters, Billie and Georgia.

From California roots to television fame

Born in San Francisco in 1972 and raised in the Bay Area, Dane moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. His early career included brief appearances on popular 1990s television shows such as Saved by the Bell, The Wonder Years, Roseanne and Married… with Children.

He secured his first recurring role in 2000 on Gideon’s Crossing and made his film debut the same year in The Basket. Throughout the early 2000s, he built a steady résumé with roles in independent films and mainstream projects, including X-Men: The Last Stand and Marley & Me.

The role that defined a generation

Dane’s breakthrough came in 2005 when he joined Grey’s Anatomy as Dr. Mark Sloan, earning the nickname “McSteamy.” Initially introduced as a guest character, his popularity led to a long-running role that lasted until Season 8. He later made return appearances, delighting longtime viewers.

In 2019, he took on another widely discussed role as Cal Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria, portraying a deeply conflicted father figure. The performance introduced him to a new audience and reaffirmed his versatility as an actor.

A career marked by resilience

Beyond medical dramas and teen series, Dane starred in action series The Last Ship and continued to appear in films and television projects in recent years. Even after his diagnosis, he remained committed to his craft.

Colleagues and fans have paid tribute to an actor remembered not only for his on-screen presence but also for his determination during illness. His passing marks the end of a career that spanned more than three decades in film and television.