Actor Eric Dane, widely recognized for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan in Grey's Anatomy and later roles in Euphoria, has died at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Reports of his passing were carried by MSN and People.
Dane had been diagnosed with ALS in 2024 but publicly disclosed his condition in April 2025. Following his announcement, he became an outspoken advocate for ALS awareness and research funding.
According to interviews compiled by People, Dane first noticed symptoms including weakness and loss of muscle control before receiving his diagnosis in 2024. In April 2025, he confirmed publicly that he was living with ALS.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually respiratory failure. While cognitive function often remains intact, the disease progressively impairs voluntary muscle movement.
After revealing his diagnosis, Dane spoke openly about adjusting to the condition, describing the emotional and physical challenges of living with a degenerative illness. He emphasized the importance of family support and medical care, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to raise awareness.
Following his public announcement, Dane joined the Board of Directors of Target ALS, a nonprofit dedicated to accelerating ALS research. His appointment reflected a deeper commitment to advancing treatment options and supporting the ALS community.
In statements shared publicly, Dane advocated about the urgency of funding research and improving access to experimental therapies. He noted that ALS remains a disease with limited treatment options and no known cure, and advocated for collaborative scientific efforts. ALS patients do not suffer any cognitive impairment, and it feels like they are locked in a body which does not listen to them, while the remain completely aware.
He was also publicly seen last year participating in a panel discussion focused on ALS awareness and research initiatives, further highlighting his engagement with advocacy efforts.
Dane’s wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, had filed for divorce in 2018. However, following his ALS diagnosis, she withdrew the divorce petition, and the couple resumed living together.
In an essay published by People titled “In Sickness and in Health,” Gayheart described the family’s decision to prioritize unity during Dane’s illness. She wrote about caring for him in his final months and maintaining a stable environment for their children. She recalled their renewed closeness and emphasized the importance of family during serious illness.
Reports state that Dane was surrounded by family members at the time of his passing.
Despite his diagnosis, Dane continued to engage in professional work. In the series Brilliant Minds, he portrayed a first responder living with ALS, a role that reflected his real-life experience.
Dane’s career spanned multiple television series and films, with his role as Dr. Mark Sloan, often referred to as “McSteamy”, in Grey's Anatomy remaining one of his most recognized performances.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Over time, patients experience:
Muscle weakness
Difficulty speaking and swallowing
Impaired mobility
Respiratory muscle failure
Life expectancy following diagnosis typically ranges from three to five years, though survival varies significantly depending on disease progression and supportive care. Some individuals live longer with comprehensive multidisciplinary management.
Current treatment options focus on slowing disease progression and managing symptoms. Research efforts continue to explore genetic factors, stem cell therapies, and novel pharmacological interventions.
Eric Dane’s death at 53 follows a public battle with ALS that he chose to confront openly. After disclosing his diagnosis in April 2025, he became actively involved in advocacy and research initiatives, including serving on the board of Target ALS.
His family, including Rebecca Gayheart, remained by his side in his final months. Dane is remembered for his television roles and his efforts to raise awareness about ALS and the need for continued scientific research.
(Rh)