Goodbye ‘McSteamy’: Eric Dane Dead at 53
Hollywood and television fans across the globe have been left heartbroken by some devastating news. Eric Dane, the incredibly talented actor who became a household name playing Dr. Mark Sloan—famously known as “McSteamy” on Grey’s Anatomy—has passed away at the age of 53.+3
A Courageous Battle with ALS
Behind the scenes, Dane had been fighting a quiet but fierce battle against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.+1
- He publicly opened up about his diagnosis 10 months ago, in 2025.+1
- He peacefully breathed his last on Thursday afternoon, February 19, 2026, following what his family described as a “courageous battle” with the illness.+1
In a heartfelt statement shared with PEOPLE, his family revealed that he spent his final days exactly where he wanted to be: surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia. His children were truly the center of his world. During this impossible time, the family has asked the public for privacy to grieve their immense loss.+3
From San Francisco to Global Stardom
Dane’s journey to the top of the entertainment industry was marked by early adversity but fueled by immense talent.
- Born in San Francisco in 1972, he lost his father—a Navy man—to a gunshot wound when he was just 7 years old.
- After graduating, he made the move to Los Angeles and started securing guest roles on classic shows like Saved by the Bell, The Wonder Years, and Roseanne.
- His career skyrocketed in 2006 when he appeared on the second season of Grey’s Anatomy.
- The fans loved his character so much that he was bumped up to a main role, staying with the hit medical drama until Dr. Sloan was tragically killed off in 2012.
Beyond the halls of Seattle Grace Hospital, Dane built a phenomenal resume. He delivered memorable performances in major hit shows like Euphoria and The Last Ship, and graced the big screen in films such as Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, and recently, Bad Boys: Ride or Die.
Throughout his difficult journey with ALS, Eric Dane became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, entirely determined to make a difference for others facing the exact same fight. He adored his fans and remained forever grateful for the incredible outpouring of love he received.