Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane dies at 53 after ALS diagnosis

Eric Dane, the actor best known for his roles on Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died less than a year after revealing he had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). He was 53. 

Dane starred as family patriarch Cal Jacobs on hit HBO teen drama show Euphoria. Before that, he was perhaps best known as Dr Mark Sloan, or ‘Dr McSteamy’, on medical drama Grey’s Anatomy.

The California-born actor was diagnosed last year with ALS and spent the last few months raising awareness for the most common form of motor neurone disease (MND).

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” reads a statement from his family.

He was married to fellow actress and model Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he had two children.

The written statement said he spent his final days surrounded by friends and his devoted wife, and his two daughters, Billie and Georgia, “who were the center of his world”. 

“He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received,” it said. 

Dane also played Jason Dean in fantasy drama series Charmed, and Captain Tom Chandler in action drama show The Last Ship, while appearing in films such as Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day and Burlesque.

By Anthony Solly