Hollywood actor Eric Dane, known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, has died at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), his representatives confirmed Thursday.
Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis in April 2025, disclosing that he had begun experiencing symptoms a year and a half earlier. In a statement, his representatives said he spent his final days surrounded by his family — including his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughters, Billie and Georgia.
The San Francisco-born actor rose to international fame in 2006 with a brief appearance on the Shonda Rhimes medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. Initially signed for a single episode, Dane’s character, Dr. Mark Sloan, quickly became a fan favorite. Nicknamed “McSteamy” for his charm and striking screen presence, Sloan became a central figure on the show over eight seasons, appearing in more than 130 episodes. His storylines, including a tumultuous romance and close ties to co-stars Patrick Dempsey and Kate Walsh, helped cement the series’ place in pop culture.
Outside of Seattle Grace Hospital, Dane displayed his versatility with a mix of television and film roles. He starred as the captain of a US Navy destroyer in TNT’s action drama The Last Ship for five seasons and portrayed a complicated father figure in HBO’s hit teen drama Euphoria. On the big screen, he appeared in X-Men: The Last Stand as Jamie Madrox/Multiple Man and in the family comedy-drama Marley & Me alongside Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston.
Born Eric William Melvin in 1972, Dane faced personal challenges early in life after the death of his father. He discovered acting in high school while participating in school plays and later moved to Los Angeles to study the craft professionally.
Dane was open about his struggles with addiction and depression, as well as professional setbacks, including a temporary departure from Grey’s Anatomy. Nevertheless, he continued working in film and television, with later credits including Bad Boys: Ride or Die, Countdown and a role as a firefighter with ALS in NBC’s Brilliant Minds, one of his final performances.
Following his diagnosis, Dane became an advocate for ALS awareness and research. He spoke candidly about his fear of leaving his daughters without a father, reflecting on the early loss of his own. Despite his illness, he expressed gratitude for his family and the fans who supported him throughout his life and career.