Shock for Millions of Fans: Eric Dane Is Dead

Eric Dane is dead. The actor, who became world-famous as Dr. Mark Sloan in Grey's Anatomy, died on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53 from complications of ALS. In December, he had campaigned for a fundraising drive to support research into the nerve disease.

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As McSteamy (known as McSexy in the German version), Dane made his breakthrough at Seattle Grace Hospital. Over more than 130 episodes of the cult series Grey's Anatomy, he became a heartthrob and won over a worldwide audience. Fans of the beloved show watched him not only perform surgery, but also fail, love, and grow – a role that brought him global fame.

He also played Captain Tom Chandler for four years in the apocalyptic series The Last Ship. Later, Dane made a strong impression in Euphoria. His portrayal of the troubled family man Cal Jacobs was uncomfortable, raw, and impressively honest.

In 2025, Eric Dane made his ALS diagnosis public. According to his family, he passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026. He is survived by his wife and their two daughters.