On February 20, 2026, the entertainment world lost one of its great stars, Eric Dane, the iconic actor from Grey’s Anatomy. At the age of 53, he passed away after a long battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative neurological disease, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. His death was widely mourned by his colleagues and Hollywood friends, who paid tribute to him on social media and in the media.
A Brave Fight Against ALS
Eric Dane had revealed last year that he was diagnosed with ALS, a disease that progressively affects muscles and motor functions. The announcement of his condition shocked his fans, who followed his fight with great emotion. In a statement, his family praised his “great strength” and “courage” throughout his battle. The actor, who was seen in a wheelchair during his last public appearance in November 2025, showed remarkable resilience in the face of the disease.
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Moving Tributes from His Co-Stars
Many actors who worked with Eric Dane on Grey’s Anatomy shared their memories and tributes. Patrick Dempsey, his long-time co-star, posted a video of Eric on his social media, emphasizing the “joy” he brought to the set. Kim Raver, who portrayed Dr. Teddy Altman, spoke of the “light” that naturally radiated from him, not only on set but also in his personal life. Kevin McKidd, James Pickens, and Sarah Drew also expressed their sadness, remembering an “incredibly talented and generous” man.
Eric Dane’s Career: From Grey’s Anatomy to Euphoria
Eric Dane first gained widespread recognition for playing Dr. Mark Sloan, also known as “McSteamy,” in Grey’s Anatomy. His character, a charming plastic surgeon, won the hearts of viewers for many seasons. In addition to Grey’s Anatomy, Eric Dane also starred in other successful projects, such as HBO’s Euphoria, where he portrayed the complex and troubled character of Cal Jacobs. This role allowed the actor to showcase the full range of his talent, and his passing leaves a void in the television world.
