Eric Dane, the actor who charmed millions as “McSteamy” on Grey’s Anatomy, died Thursday at age 53 after battling ALS.
The star revealed his diagnosis just 10 months ago, according to PEOPLE Magazine.
Dane’s death marks another high-profile loss to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the devastating neurological disease that progressively destroys motor neurons. The condition typically proves fatal within three to five years of diagnosis.
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” his family said in a statement. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.”
The family added that Dane “will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always.” They noted he “adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received.”
Dane rocketed to fame in 2006 when he joined Grey’s Anatomy‘s second season. His portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan earned him the nickname “McSteamy” and transformed him from recurring guest to series regular.
He remained with the ABC medical drama until 2012. The role established him as a television star and household name.
Beyond Seattle Grace Hospital, Dane commanded the screen as Admiral Tom Chandler in The Last Ship from 2014 to 2018. More recently, he earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of Cal Jacobs, a complex father living a double life, on HBO’s Euphoria.
His film credits included Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, Burlesque, and Bad Boys: Ride or Die. Throughout his career, Dane demonstrated a remarkable range across genres.
When announcing his diagnosis last year, Dane expressed gratitude for his family’s support. He told PEOPLE, “I have been diagnosed with ALS,” while acknowledging they would navigate “this next chapter” together.
A memoir titled Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments is scheduled for publication later this year.
“I wake up every morning, and I’m immediately reminded that this is real — this illness, this challenge and that’s exactly why I’m writing this book,” Dane said when announcing the project, PEOPLE reported.
He hoped to “capture the moments that shaped me — the beautiful days, the hard ones, the ones I never took for granted.” His goal was to ensure “people who read it will remember what it means to live with heart.”
“If sharing this helps someone find meaning in their own days, then my story is worth telling,” he added.
Dane is survived by daughters Billie and Georgia, whom he shared with actress Rebecca Gayheart. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.