American actor Eric Dane, known to audiences as Dr. Mark Sloan from the medical hit "Grey's Anatomy" and Cal Jacobs from the controversial series "Euphoria," died on Thursday, February 19, at the age of 53. The cause of death was amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which the artist had been battling since April 2025. His family confirmed his passing, highlighting his determination in the fight to increase public awareness about this devastating neurological disease.

Date and Cause of Death

Actor Eric Dane died on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53 due to ALS, nearly a year after his diagnosis.

Hollywood Legacy

He will be remembered primarily for his roles in the series "Grey's Anatomy" and "Euphoria," where he acted until the final months of his life.

Family and Colleagues' Support

At his deathbed were his wife Rebecca Gayheart, his daughters, and a circle of close friends from film sets.

The entertainment world was plunged into mourning upon news of the death of Eric Dane, one of the most recognizable television actors of his generation. Dane passed away on Thursday afternoon, February 19, 2026, exactly on the twentieth anniversary of his debut on "Grey's Anatomy," where he played the charismatic plastic surgeon known as "McSteamy." His representatives and close family, who were with him in his final moments, announced his death. The artist died due to complications related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which he had suffered from for nearly a year. The actor publicly announced his diagnosis in April 2025, becoming an active advocate for ALS patients since then. Despite the progressing symptoms of the disease, he tried to maintain his professional activity until the final weeks, including work on the set of the HBO series "Euphoria." In a family statement, it was noted that Eric spent his last days surrounded by the care of his wife Rebecca Gayheart and daughters, Billie and Georgia. The couple, though previously separated, reunited in the face of the illness, with Gayheart withdrawing her divorce petition to support her husband during this most difficult period. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis gained worldwide recognition in 2014 thanks to the "Ice Bucket Challenge" campaign, which raised millions in funds for research into this still incurable condition. Dane's death prompted a wave of condolences from industry colleagues, including the cast of "Grey's Anatomy" and stars such as Ashton Kutcher and Alyssa Milano. Media outlets emphasize that the actor maintained his dignity until the end, striving to use his popularity to educate the public about the mechanisms of ALS. As he himself recalled in one of his last interviews for "The Washington Post," his goal was to leave with the feeling that he had helped others understand the situation of terminally ill people. The film industry bids farewell to an artist who could combine on-screen magnetism with deep sensitivity, as proven by his recent dramatic roles. „If I have to go, I'll go helping someone else.” — Eric Dane

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Mentioned People

  • Eric Dane — American actor known for the role of Mark Sloan, died after battling ALS.
  • Rebecca Gayheart — Wife of Eric Dane, who supported him during his illness despite a previous separation.
  • Ashton Kutcher — Actor who paid public tribute to his deceased friend.