The entertainment world is in mourning following the confirmation that Eric Dane has passed away at the age of 53. Known to millions as the charming Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy and more recently as the complex Cal Jacobs in Euphoria, Dane died on Thursday, February 19, 2026. His passing comes after a brave and public ten month battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease.

His family released a statement confirming that he spent his final moments surrounded by those he loved most, including his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia. The news has triggered a massive wave of tributes from former co-stars and fans alike, all of whom remember him not just for his striking screen presence, but for the resilience he showed in his final year.

A Career That Defined Modern Television

Eric Dane first captured the hearts of audiences globally when he walked down the halls of Seattle Grace Hospital. As Dr. Mark Sloan, he became a cultural icon, earning the nickname “McSteamy” and bringing a perfect blend of arrogance and vulnerability to the screen for over six seasons. His chemistry with the cast and his character’s emotional journey made him a cornerstone of the Shondaland universe.

However, Dane was never one to be pigeonholed. After his exit from the medical drama, he took on the lead role of Captain Tom Chandler in the action series The Last Ship. He later surprised and impressed critics with his haunting portrayal of Cal Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria. This role showcased his incredible range, proving that he could navigate the darkest corners of human nature with the same skill he used to play a romantic lead.

Fighting for a Cause: His Journey with ALS

In April 2025, Eric Dane shared the news of his ALS diagnosis with the public. ALS, often called Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a terminal condition that affects the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. Rather than retreating from the spotlight, Dane used his platform to become a tireless advocate for the ALS community.

He joined the board of directors for Target ALS and worked closely with the ALS Network to secure better funding for research and care. In late 2025, he was named Advocate of the Year for his efforts to bring national attention to the need for faster drug development and more accessible healthcare for patients. Even as the disease impacted his mobility, he continued to speak out, stating that while the illness took something from him every day, it would never take his spirit.

Tributes Pour in from Hollywood

The loss of Eric Dane has left a significant void in the industry. Co-stars from across his thirty year career have shared stories of his humor and his deep devotion to his family. Many noted that while he often played tough or “cool” characters, he was known on set for his warmth and his ability to make everyone feel seen.

Producers from Euphoria confirmed that Dane was able to film scenes for the upcoming third season before his health declined, ensuring that his final performance will serve as a lasting tribute to his craft. His memoir, titled Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments, is also scheduled for a posthumous release later this year. The book will detail his life in Hollywood and his perspective on living with a terminal illness.

Honor the Legacy of Eric Dane

As fans around the world revisit his most famous episodes and films, the focus remains on his incredible strength. He turned a devastating personal diagnosis into a mission of hope for others, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the screen. He is survived by his wife and daughters, who have requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time.

The death of Eric Dane marks the end of an era for television, but his work and his advocacy ensure that he will be remembered for decades to come.