The television world is mourning the loss of Eric Dane, who passed away on Thursday, February 19, after battling ALS. He was 53. Best known for his unforgettable role as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, Dane became a household name during his years on the hit series.

In a statement to People magazine, his family confirmed his passing. They shared that he spent his final days surrounded by friends, his wife, and his two daughters, who were the center of his world. The family emphasized his determination throughout his illness and his passion for advocacy.

In December 2025, just weeks before his passing, Dane made his final public appearance on a virtual panel. He spoke candidly about his diagnosis and the emotional toll of living with the progressive disease. He admitted that maintaining a positive outlook became essential to how he coped.

At the time, Dane had recently completed filming Brilliant Minds, portraying a patient living with ALS—a role that mirrored his own reality. He described the experience as challenging yet cathartic, and he remained vocal about the need for awareness and research funding.

Dane’s portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan transformed him into one of television’s most recognizable figures. Beyond Grey’s Anatomy, he built a diverse career in film and television, earning respect for his willingness to take on emotionally demanding roles.

In recent years, his advocacy work became just as defining as his acting career. His openness about ALS brought renewed attention to the condition and helped humanize a diagnosis that many still struggle to understand.

Eric Dane is survived by his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughters, Billie and Georgia. His passing marks the end of a remarkable life—one shaped by talent, perseverance, and profound courage.