🚨 BREAKING: Erik Dane Has GONE — His Family Just Released His Final Words… and They’re Absolutely Heartbreaking 💔

You knew him as the charming Dr. McSteamy from Grey’s Anatomy, the intense dad in Euphoria… but behind the screen, Eric Dane was fighting the battle of his life against ALS. Just 10 months after bravely going public with his diagnosis, the star has passed away at only 53.

His devastated family shared the devastating news today, revealing he spent his last moments surrounded by his wife and two daughters — the lights of his world. But what he said in those final days… it will leave you in tears and questioning everything about life, love, and legacy. 😢

Eric Dane, the actor best known for his breakout role as the charismatic plastic surgeon Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on the long-running ABC medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has died at the age of 53. Dane passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, following a courageous but ultimately losing fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

The news was confirmed by the actor’s family in a statement provided to multiple outlets, including PEOPLE magazine and TMZ. “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” the statement read. “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 throughout his struggle with the progressive neurodegenerative disease, Dane had become a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research. “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,” they continued. “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.”

The family requested privacy as they navigate their grief during this difficult period.

Dane’s death comes less than a year after he publicly disclosed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. At the time, the actor told PEOPLE in an exclusive interview that he had been living with the condition but felt fortunate to continue working. “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria,” he said, referring to his recurring role as Cal Jacobs on the HBO series.

ALS is a fatal illness that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control. Symptoms typically begin with muscle weakness and progress over time, eventually affecting speech, swallowing, and breathing. There is no cure, and the disease is always progressive.

In June 2025, just two months after his initial announcement, Dane appeared on Good Morning America and revealed the rapid progression of his symptoms. He explained that his right arm had completely stopped functioning, and he anticipated losing control of his left hand within months. “My left side is functioning. My right side has completely stopped working,” he said candidly during the interview.

Despite the challenges, Dane remained determined to use his platform to raise awareness. He participated in efforts to highlight the need for more research funding and support for those affected by ALS. In January 2026, however, he had to withdraw from an ALS Network gala appearance due to the “physical realities of living with ALS,” according to the organization.

Born Eric William Dane on November 11, 1972, in San Francisco, California, the actor grew up in a Bay Area household and attended local schools before pursuing acting. He got his start in television with guest spots on shows like Saved by the Bell: The New Class and Married… with Children in the 1990s. His early career included roles in films such as The Basket (2000) and television series like Charmed and Once and Again.

Dane’s big break came in 2006 when he joined the cast of Grey’s Anatomy in its third season. As Dr. Mark Sloan, he quickly became a fan favorite, earning the nickname “McSteamy” from viewers and co-stars alike for his good looks and flirtatious on-screen persona. His character formed key storylines involving romantic entanglements with Dr. Lexie Grey (Chyler Leigh) and complicated friendships with Dr. Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey). Dane remained a series regular until 2012, when his character was written out following a dramatic plane crash storyline. He later made guest appearances on the show.

After leaving Grey’s Anatomy, Dane continued to build his career with roles in series like The Last Ship, where he starred as Captain Tom Chandler for five seasons on TNT. He also appeared in films including Burlesque (2010) alongside Cher and Christina Aguilera, and Valentine’s Day (2010).

In recent years, Dane gained a new generation of fans through his intense portrayal of Cal Jacobs, a troubled father figure, in HBO’s Euphoria. His performance opposite Zendaya earned praise for its raw emotional depth, showcasing a different side of his acting range compared to the lighter, charming roles of his earlier career.

Dane was married to actress Rebecca Gayheart since 2004. The couple had two daughters together: Billie Beatrice, born in 2007, and Georgia Geraldine, born in 2008. Gayheart, known for roles in films like Jawbreaker and Urban Legend, had largely stepped back from the spotlight in recent years to focus on family. Reports in early 2026 indicated the couple had been living separately amid Dane’s health struggles, though no formal separation was confirmed.

Throughout his public battle with ALS, Dane emphasized the importance of family support. In his initial diagnosis announcement, he expressed gratitude for having his “loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” The family’s final statement reinforced that sentiment, noting that his wife and daughters were at the center of his world during his last days.

Tributes poured in from co-stars, friends, and fans following the news of his passing. Many recalled his warmth on set and his willingness to use his fame for good causes, particularly after his diagnosis. Colleagues from Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria described him as a dedicated professional and a kind presence.

Dane’s death highlights the brutal reality of ALS, a disease that has claimed the lives of many public figures, including baseball legend Lou Gehrig, whose name became synonymous with the condition after his famous 1939 farewell speech. In recent decades, the Ice Bucket Challenge of 2014 brought widespread attention to ALS research, raising millions for organizations like the ALS Association.

While no specific details about funeral arrangements or memorial services have been released, the family has asked for privacy as they grieve. Dane’s legacy as an actor who brought charisma, depth, and humanity to his roles will endure through reruns of Grey’s Anatomy, episodes of Euphoria, and the memories of those who worked with him.

Eric Dane is survived by his wife Rebecca Gayheart, daughters Billie and Georgia, and extended family. He was 53 years old.