Actor Eric Dane Dies on February 19 2026 at Age 53 from ALS Disease

Eric Dane died at age 53 on February 19, 2026. This is very young, as he only learned he had ALS disease ten months ago in April 2025.
By Newsroom | Entertainment, USA |

Actor Eric Dane, known for his roles in "Grey's Anatomy" and "Euphoria," has died at the age of 53. His family confirmed his passing on Thursday, stating that his death was due to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Dane had publicly shared his diagnosis less than a year prior to his death, subsequently becoming an advocate for ALS awareness and research.

Background

Eric Dane's career spanned decades, with notable roles in television and film. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan, "McSteamy," on the popular ABC medical drama "Grey's Anatomy" from 2006 to 2012, and later reprised the role. He also played Cal Jacobs in the HBO series "Euphoria" and had earlier roles in "Charmed," "The Last Ship," and films like "X-Men: Last Stand" and "Burlesque."

Grey’s Anatomy actor Eric Dane dies aged 53 after ALS battle - 1

Dane was married to actress Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he had two daughters. He publicly announced his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. Following his diagnosis, Dane became actively involved in raising awareness for ALS, speaking at events and advocating for improved health insurance policies for those with neurodegenerative diseases. He was honored with the ALS Network's advocate of the year award in September 2025.

Grey’s Anatomy actor Eric Dane dies aged 53 after ALS battle - 2

Evidence of Death and Cause

Multiple reputable news outlets, including CBS News, BBC News, ABC News, Associated Press, CNN, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, and Variety, reported Eric Dane's death on Thursday, February 19, 2026. His representatives and family confirmed the news.

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Grey’s Anatomy actor Eric Dane dies aged 53 after ALS battle - 3

  • Cause of Death: Representatives stated Dane died from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

  • Timing of Announcement: The news of his death arrived approximately 10 months after he publicly shared his ALS diagnosis.

Eric Dane's Public Advocacy for ALS

Following his diagnosis, Eric Dane dedicated a significant portion of his time to advocating for ALS awareness and research. His efforts included:

Grey’s Anatomy actor Eric Dane dies aged 53 after ALS battle - 4

  • Speaking Engagements: He spoke at a news conference in Washington D.C. concerning health insurance prior authorization policies for ALS patients.

  • Recognition: In September 2025, the ALS Network recognized his commitment by naming him their advocate of the year.

  • Personal Mission: Dane expressed a desire to share his journey openly, stating he felt it was "imperative" and that his life was no longer solely about himself. He viewed his advocacy as a way to help others and to model resilience for his daughters.

Dane's Health Status Prior to Death

Dane was candid about the progression of his ALS. In a June 2025 interview with ABC News, he described the physical impact of the disease:

  • "My left side is functioning; my right side has completely stopped working."

  • He indicated a rapid loss of voluntary function in his left arm, expressing concern about losing the use of his left hand within "a couple, few more months."

Despite the progression of his illness, Dane expressed a determination to continue his work. He mentioned planning to keep acting and that he felt a "fight to the last breath" was necessary. His final acting role was in October 2025, where he played a firefighter with ALS in NBC's "Brilliant Minds."

Public Reaction and Family's Request

The news of Eric Dane's death has been met with widespread coverage from major news outlets. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they "navigate this impossible time."

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did Eric Dane die from ALS disease?
Eric Dane died on Thursday, February 19, 2026. He was 53 years old when he passed away from complications of the disease.
Q: What was Eric Dane's cause of death in February 2026?
He died from ALS, which is also called Lou Gehrig's disease. This illness makes it hard for the body to move and breathe over time.
Q: Which TV shows was Eric Dane famous for before his death?
He was most famous for playing Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy and Cal Jacobs on Euphoria. He also acted in The Last Ship and X-Men.
Q: How did Eric Dane help other people with ALS after his diagnosis?
He became an advocate in April 2025 to help people get better health insurance for their treatment. He won an award in September 2025 for his hard work in teaching others about the disease.