Eric Dane, Actor, Dies at 53 After ALS Battle in February 2026

Eric Dane, known for 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Euphoria,' has passed away at 53. He was diagnosed with ALS in April 2025 and used his platform to raise awareness for the disease.
By Newsroom | Entertainment, Health |

Eric Dane, known for his roles in "Grey's Anatomy" and "Euphoria", has died at the age of 53. His death, confirmed by his family, occurred less than a year after he publicly shared his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

A Public Struggle with ALS

The actor's passing on Thursday marks the end of a public journey with ALS, a progressive disease affecting nerve cells and muscle control. Dane disclosed his diagnosis in April 2025, an announcement that preceded a period of dedicated advocacy for the disease. He utilized his platform to draw attention to research and support for those affected by neurodegenerative conditions.

Eric Dane dead at 53: Grey's Anatomy star dies after courageous battle with ALS... less than a year after announcing diagnosis - 1

Dane's public engagement included speaking at a news conference in Washington regarding health insurance prior authorization and partnering with the nonprofit organization I AM ALS.

Career and Advocacy

Dane's career spanned several notable roles. He played plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Sloan in ABC's "Grey's Anatomy" for eight seasons, a role that began in 2006. Later, he took on the character of Cal Jacobs, the father of Nate Jacobs, in HBO's "Euphoria," appearing in multiple seasons of the acclaimed teen drama.

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Eric Dane dead at 53: Grey's Anatomy star dies after courageous battle with ALS... less than a year after announcing diagnosis - 2

Beyond his acting, Dane became an advocate for ALS awareness. He was recognized for his efforts, being named Advocate of the Year by the ALS Network in September 2025 and later included in Time magazine's 100 most influential people in health for his work.

Evidence suggests a strong connection between his diagnosis and his subsequent public advocacy.

Eric Dane dead at 53: Grey's Anatomy star dies after courageous battle with ALS... less than a year after announcing diagnosis - 3

Progression of the Disease

In interviews shared after his diagnosis, Dane spoke candidly about the physical impact of ALS. He described his right side as having stopped functioning and noted a rapid loss of voluntary function in his left arm.

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"My left side is functioning; my right side has completely stopped working… I feel like maybe a couple, few more months and I won't have my left hand either."

This personal experience informed his drive to advocate for greater understanding and support for the disease, which gradually impacts the ability to walk, talk, speak, and breathe.

Eric Dane dead at 53: Grey's Anatomy star dies after courageous battle with ALS... less than a year after announcing diagnosis - 4

Dane's personal accounts detail the physical decline associated with ALS, framing his advocacy as a direct response to his lived experience.

Endorsements and Tributes

Tributes have emerged from various sources following the announcement of his death. Colleagues and fans have expressed their condolences, acknowledging his contributions to television and his courageous fight against ALS. His family stated he was "forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received."

The consensus across multiple reports confirms the cause of death and the timeline of his public battle with ALS.

Expert Analysis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurological disease that attacks the nerve cells controlling voluntary muscles. Currently, there is no cure for ALS, and treatments aim to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The disease's progression is typically rapid, with most individuals living only two to five years after diagnosis, though some may live longer. Dane's advocacy highlights a critical need for increased funding for research into neurodegenerative diseases and improved support systems for patients and their families.

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Conclusion

Eric Dane's passing at 53 concludes a chapter marked by significant acting achievements and a final, impactful period of public advocacy. His public battle with ALS, which he shared less than a year before his death, brought renewed attention to the challenges faced by those with the disease. His family's statement underscores the appreciation he held for the support he received, while his advocacy efforts point to a desire to make a lasting impact on awareness and research for ALS.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did actor Eric Dane die at 53?
Eric Dane died at the age of 53 on Thursday. His family confirmed his death occurred less than a year after he shared his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Q: When did Eric Dane announce he had ALS?
Eric Dane publicly shared his diagnosis of ALS in April 2025. He then used his public platform to raise awareness and support for research into the disease.
Q: What was Eric Dane known for before his ALS diagnosis?
Eric Dane was well-known for his roles as Dr. Mark Sloan in 'Grey's Anatomy' from 2006 and as Cal Jacobs in HBO's 'Euphoria.'
Q: How did ALS affect Eric Dane?
In interviews after his diagnosis, Dane spoke about the physical effects of ALS, noting his right side had stopped working and he was losing function in his left arm and hand.
Q: What is ALS?
ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive disease that affects nerve cells and muscle control, gradually impacting the ability to walk, talk, speak, and breathe. There is currently no cure for ALS.