Grey's Anatomy's ‘McSteamy’, Eric Dane, dies at 53 after ALS battle
Hollywood mourns Eric Dane, the charming "McSteamy," as he passes at 53
Image: X/@PopCrave
Hollywood has lost a shining star. Eric Dane, who captured hearts as Dr Mark Sloan, or "McSteamy," on Grey's Anatomy, has died at 53 after a tough battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).
His death leaves fans and the entertainment world in mourning, remembering not just his talent but the warmth he brought to his roles.
His representatives announced his death on Thursday, and fans and the entertainment world are heartbroken.
The statement read: “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS.
“He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife Rebecca Gayheart, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the centre of his world.”
The then 52-year-old actor confirmed the ALS diagnosis in an exclusive interview with "People" in 2025 that he had been experiencing symptoms for over a year and a half.
Known as a rare degenerative neurological condition, ALS progressively robs individuals of their ability to move, speak, and eventually breathe.
Despite the devastating diagnosis, Dane’s fight was marked by resilience and advocacy.
The statement added: "Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight.’
Dane was a breakout star during his six-year spell with Grey’s Anatomy, debuting in 2006 and leaving in 2012.
Reflecting on his departure, Dane shared in a 2024 episode of Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast that the decision wasn’t entirely his.
Struggling with addiction at the time, Dane admitted that he had become "very expensive" for the network.
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