Eric Dane, the charismatic actor who became a household name as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on the long-running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has died. He was 53.
According to a statement released by his publicist, Dane passed away on Thursday afternoon, February 19, 2026, following a courageous and highly publicized battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
The actor’s final days were spent in the company of his closest friends and family. In an official statement, his representatives shared:
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon… He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.”
Dane first went public with his ALS diagnosis in 2025. Rather than retreating from the spotlight, he utilized his platform to become a fierce advocate for research and awareness, working tirelessly to support others navigating the terminal neurodegenerative condition.
While Dane’s career spanned decades, including a gritty, acclaimed performance in Euphoria and a leading role in The Last Ship, it was his entrance on Grey’s Anatomy that cemented his status as a TV icon. His portrayal of the confident yet complex Mark Sloan earned him a massive global fan base.
The family’s statement noted that Dane was “forever grateful” for the unwavering support of his fans throughout his health journey.
He is survived by his wife and two daughters, Billie and Georgia.
The family has requested privacy as they navigate this profound loss.
