Eric Dane, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Euphoria’ actor, dies at 53 after ALS diagnosis
Eric Dane, known for his roles on television dramas including Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at 53 following a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to his representative.
Melissa Bank confirmed the actor’s death Thursday, Feb. 19, in a statement to USA TODAY. Dane died that afternoon after what the statement described as a battle with ALS. He was surrounded by family, including his wife and two daughters.
Dane publicly disclosed in April 2025 that he had been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. In subsequent interviews, he said he had lost the use of his right arm as the disease advanced.
Eric Dane, the celebrated actor best known for his roles on “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria” and who later in life became advocate for ALS awareness, died at 53. https://t.co/BOdwcuDIFC pic.twitter.com/aUzGxYlc4i
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) February 20, 2026
ALS is considered rare and currently has no cure. The illness has affected several public figures in recent decades, drawing increased attention to research and advocacy efforts.
Three weeks before his death, Dane withdrew from an ALS Network gala, citing the physical impact of the disease. The organization, ALS Network, said in a Jan. 25 statement that Dane had stepped back from attending due to the realities of living with ALS. He had been scheduled to receive the Dean and Kathleen Rasmussen Advocate of the Year Award.
In September, Dane met with U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell to discuss ALS awareness and research funding. Video shared by the congressman showed the actor expressing his determination to continue advocating for patients and families affected by the disease.
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Dane was widely recognized for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, a role that earned him national prominence during the series’ early seasons. He later appeared as Cal Jacobs on HBO’s Euphoria and was set to reprise the role in the show’s upcoming third season.
In one of his final performances, Dane appeared in NBC’s Brilliant Minds, portraying a firefighter diagnosed with ALS. Creator Michael Grassi told USA TODAY in November that Dane received a prolonged standing ovation from cast and crew after filming an emotionally demanding scene.
Dane is survived by his wife, actress and model Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia.
This is a developing story.
