20 February,2026 09:38 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Eric Dane
Actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy and Cal Jacobs on Euphoria, passed away at the age of 53 on February 19, his family confirmed. Dane had been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) since his 2025 diagnosis. In a heartfelt statement, his loved ones said he spent his final days with family and friends and became a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research.
Dane was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in 2025.
A statement issued by his family read, "With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. 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."
It continued, "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. 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 received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time," as quoted by People.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrig's disease, is a condition that affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Last year, in an emotional interview with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America, Dane revealed that ALS had significantly impacted his mobility. "My left side is functioning; my right side has completely stopped working. I feel like maybe in a couple more months I won't have my left hand either. It's sobering."
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane grew up in the Bay Area, attending Sequoia High School in Redwood City and San Mateo High School in San Mateo. After graduating from the latter, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting, reported Variety.
In the 1990s, the actor played small roles on television series including Saved by the Bell, The Wonder Years, Roseanne, and Married... with Children before landing the recurring role of Dr. Wyatt Cooper on Gideon's Crossing in 2000. That same year, he made his film debut in Rich Cowan's The Basket.
His other film credits include Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane, Sol Goode, Feast, X-Men: The Last Stand, and Marley & Me.
