Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria star Eric Dane dies aged 53
Less than one year after being diagnosed with ALS
Last updated 12 hours ago
American actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles in TV shows like Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, had sadly died at the age of 53, after being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2025.
A statement on behalf of his family confirmed the sad news. It read: '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.
'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’s received.'
Eric, who played the role as Dr Mark Sloan in medical drama Grey's Anatomy, and Cal Jacobs in teen drama Euphoria, was diagnosed with ALS in 2025, and spent months raising awareness for the disease.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a form of Motor Neurone Disease (MND), which affects the nerve cells in the brain and spine that control muscle movement. Life expectancy for the condition is usually around two to five years.
Since the sad news of Eric's death broke, tributes from around the world have poured in. HBO Max wrote: 'We are deeply saddened by the news of Eric Dane’s passing. He was incredibly talented and HBO was fortunate to have worked with him on three seasons of Euphoria. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time'.
Fans also took to social media to express their sadness at the news. One wrote: 'Went out like a fighter. Worked hard on his craft till the very end even when his body failed him. A warrior. RIP, Eric. I’m crushed. 💔💔💔', with another writing: 'Died way too soon. It’s going to be so hard to watch euphoria without both Angus and him😓💔'. (sic)
Another wrote: 'thank you for sharing your talent, creativity and passion with the world 🕊️', with somebody else writing: 'what a talented man. this is so devastating'. (sic)
Eric's former co-star Patrick Dempsey joined Magic Radio for a chat on the morning the news broke, where he paid tribute to 'the man who always made him laugh'. He said: "I had a very hard time getting started this morning. He always made me laugh. He was so funny. He had a great sense of humour. He was always great to work with. Always very professional, really smart."
Watch his full tribute below:
Eric is survived by his wife, actress and model Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters Billie and Georgia.
Remembering all of the famous faces we've sadly lost in 2026 so far:
Terry Yorath
Former Leeds and Wales footballer Terry Yorath sadly died at the age of 75 following a short illness in January. His family, including his daughter, TV presenter Gabby Logan, shared the sad news via a statement, which said: "To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was Dad; a quiet, kind and gentle man. Our hearts are broken but we take comfort knowing that he will be reunited with our brother, Daniel."
Derek Martin
Actor Derek Martin, best known for playing the iconic role of cab driver Charlie Slater in BBC soap EastEnders, sadly died at the age of 92 on 10th January 2026. Derek's agent Sharon Henry sharing a statement on behalf of his family, which read: "Derek wasn't just a dad to us he was a friend and supported us through our highs and lows. He never stopped learning, he loved meeting people and was always generous with his time. We both miss him terribly. The family ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult time."
Trevor A Toussaint
Actor Trevor A Toussaint, best known for playing the role of Walter Deveraux on Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks, sadly died at the age of 65 in January. His rep confirmed the sad news on social media, writing: 'It is with deep sadness that we formally announce the passing of Trevor A Toussaint. His family wish to thank you for your well wishes and support as they take this time to privately come to terms with their great loss of an enigmatic, loving father, husband, grandfather, uncle and friend."
Francis Buchholz
German bassist Francis Buchholz, best known for his two-decade tenure with Scorpions and being a member of Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock, sadly died in. January, aged 71. A post from his family said: 'It is with overwhelming sadness and heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved Francis passed away yesterday after a private battle with cancer. He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by love.'
Catherine O'Hara
Home Alone and Schitt's Creek actress Catherine O'Hara sadly died at the age of 71 in January, following a brief illness. The Canadian-American comedy star was well known for playing Kevin's mum in Home Alone and Moira Rose in Schitt's Creek.
John Virgo
Snooker player and commentator John Virgo sadly died at the age of 79 in February. World Snooker Tour confirmed the sad news in a statement which read: "Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV."
James Van Der Beek
Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek sadly died at the age of 48 in February, following a battle with bowel cancer. The family statement said: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."
Robert Duvall
The Godfather actor Robert Duvall sadly passed away at the age of 95 in February. The Oscar-winning actor died "peacefully" at his home surrounded by "love and comfort", according to a statement by his wife Luciana Duvall.
Eric Dane
American actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles in TV shows like Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, sadly died at the age of 53, after being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2025.
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