Actor Eric Dane Dies at 53 from ALS in February 2026 Leaving Two Children

Eric Dane died at age 53, which is very young. He was famous for playing Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy for many years and helped 30,000 people with ALS.
By Newsroom | Entertainment, United States |

Eric Dane, the actor 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 he died from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Dane publicly shared his ALS diagnosis less than a year ago.

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A Public Figure for ALS Awareness

Following his diagnosis, Dane became an advocate for ALS awareness. He spoke at a news conference in Washington about issues related to health insurance prior authorization. In recognition of his efforts, the ALS Network named him "advocate of the year" in September, honoring his dedication to raising awareness and support for those affected by the disease. He also expressed gratitude for the "outpouring of love and support" he received from fans.

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Career and Personal Life

Dane was a prolific actor with a career spanning from the early 1990s. His most recognized roles include:

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

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  • Dr. Mark Sloan (aka "McSteamy") on the ABC medical drama "Grey's Anatomy," a role he played from 2006 to 2012 and reprised in 2021.

  • Cal Jacobs on the HBO teen drama "Euphoria."

He also appeared in other television shows like "Charmed" and "The Last Ship," and in films such as "X-Men: Last Stand" and "Burlesque."

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Dane's representatives announced his death, with his family requesting privacy during this time. His father died by suicide when Dane was seven years old. He is survived by his two children with ex-wife Rebecca Gayheart.

Understanding ALS

ALS is a progressive disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It gradually impairs the ability to walk, talk, speak, and breathe. The Mayo Clinic notes that ALS typically leads to muscle control loss, and most patients die within three to five years of diagnosis. The disease affects approximately 30,000 people in the United States.

  • Eric Dane, known for "Grey's Anatomy" and "Euphoria," has died at 53.

  • His death was attributed to ALS, a condition he publicly revealed less than a year prior.

  • Dane actively became an advocate for ALS awareness following his diagnosis.

Sources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Grey's Anatomy actor Eric Dane die at age 53?
Eric Dane died from a disease called ALS on Thursday. He told the public about his sickness less than one year ago and worked to help others with the same problem.
Q: What famous roles did Eric Dane play on TV before his death?
He was best known as Dr. Mark Sloan, or "McSteamy," on Grey's Anatomy from 2006 to 2012. He also played Cal Jacobs on the show Euphoria and appeared in X-Men movies.
Q: How did Eric Dane help the ALS Network before he passed away?
He spoke to leaders in Washington about health insurance and helping sick people. The ALS Network gave him an award in September for being the "advocate of the year."
Q: What is the ALS disease that caused Eric Dane to die?
ALS is a sickness that stops the brain from talking to the muscles. It makes it hard for 30,000 people in the US to walk, talk, and breathe.