The entertainment industry is grieving the loss of a cherished television actor. Eric Dane, famed for his role as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy and as the complex Cal Jacobs on Euphoria, has died at 53.

His family confirmed the news on Thursday, marking the end of his brave and public battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Throughout this struggle, he displayed both grace and a resolute desire to make a meaningful impact.

Who Was Eric Dane? Quick Bio of the ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star

Eric Dane, born in San Francisco in 1972, was no stranger to television screens, having appeared in popular shows like Saved by the Bell and Married…With Children before achieving widespread fame. In 2006, his career took a significant turn when he joined Grey’s Anatomy, a role that would define his career.

Portraying the confident and captivating plastic surgeon Mark Sloan, Dane quickly became a fan favorite, earning the affectionate moniker “McSteamy.” His magnetic presence carried over to the TNT action series The Last Ship, and he later delivered a striking performance in HBO’s Euphoria, showcasing his versatility far beyond the charming doctor persona.

Eric Dane Dies at 53: What We Know About His Passing

Eric Dane passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. His family issued a touching statement, expressing how he spent his final days with close friends, his beloved wife, and his two treasured daughters, Billie and Georgia, who meant the world to him.

The cause was complications from ALS, a fight he had documented publicly for less than a year. The statement continued, highlighting the man behind the celebrity, noting that he was “forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received” from his fans. His family has asked for privacy as they navigate this difficult time.

Eric Dane’s ALS Diagnosis and Battle With the Disease

In April 2025, Dane publicly disclosed his ALS diagnosis, a progressive neurodegenerative condition also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Initially, he had attributed the weakness in his right hand to fatigue, but soon realized the gravity of his health condition. Despite the challenging prognosis, he approached his diagnosis with admirable candor and courage.

He spoke at a Washington news conference about health insurance, using his platform to highlight the practical challenges patients face. By September, he was photographed using a wheelchair, yet his spirit remained unbroken. He even took on a poignant role as a firefighter with ALS in NBC’s Brilliant Minds, a part that mirrored his reality and resonated deeply with viewers.

Timeline: From ALS Announcement to His Death

Dane’s public journey with ALS was a brief but impactful ten months.

• April 2025: Eric Dane bravely announces his ALS diagnosis to the public.

• June 2025: He speaks openly about his first symptoms in an interview with Good Morning America and advocates for healthcare reform in Washington D.C..

• September 2025: The ALS Network honors him with the Advocate of the Year award for his commitment to raising awareness . He is also photographed using a wheelchair at an airport.

• December 2025: He announces his upcoming memoir, Book of Days, expressing his desire to continue working and sharing his story.

• February 19, 2026: Eric Dane passes away peacefully at the age of 53, surrounded by his family.

Eric Dane’s ALS Advocacy and Awareness Efforts

In his final months, Dane shifted his focus from acting to advocacy, becoming a powerful voice for those living with ALS. He wasn’t just a celebrity spokesperson; he was an active participant in the fight.

He lent his support to the nonprofit organization I Am ALS, with the group remembering him as “more than a supporter—he was part of our family”. His advocacy was driven by a pure motive, as he told The Washington Post, “How can I help? How can I be of some service?”. He was determined to use his remaining time to shine a light on the urgent need for research and to bring visibility to a disease that often robs its victims of their voice.

Eric Dane’s Upcoming Memoir and Final Projects

Even as his health declined, Dane remained committed to his craft and his story. He filmed scenes for the highly anticipated third season of Euphoria, ensuring fans will see him reprise his role as Cal Jacobs one last time when the season premieres on April 12, 2026. His final screen performance can be seen in the Prime Video crime drama Countdown.

However, his most personal final project is his memoir, Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments, set for release later this year by Maria Shriver’s imprint, The Open Field. In it, he reflects on the moments that shaped him, from his first day on Grey’s Anatomy to the births of his daughters and his ALS diagnosis. “I want to capture the moments that shaped me… so that if nothing else, people who read it will remember what it means to live with heart,” he said of the book. It stands as his final, heartfelt message to the world.