American actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles in TV dramas Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at 53.

PEOPLE confirmed the news with a statement from his family.

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” said a statement from Mr Dane’s family. “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.”

Mr Dane’s demise came months after he publicly disclosed he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

Born in San Francisco in 1972, he began his acting career in the 1990s with guest appearances on popular television shows before landing recurring roles in series such as ‘Charmed’.

He rose to global prominence in 2006 when he joined the cast of Grey’s Anatomy as Dr Mark Sloan, a charismatic plastic surgeon nicknamed ‘McSteamy’.

His portrayal quickly made him a fan favourite and one of the show’s breakout stars. He remained on the ABC medical drama for several seasons, becoming a central figure in some of its most emotional storylines.

Years later, he acted in more popular roles that introduced him to a new generation of viewers, including Cal Jacobs in hit teen drama ‘Euphoria,’ where he portrayed a troubled father.

Beyond TV, Mr Dane appeared in films including ‘Marley & Me,’ ‘Valentine’s Day,’ and ‘Burlesque,’ building a steady career that spanned more than two decades.

The actor revealed his ALS diagnosis publicly in 2025, describing the illness as life-altering.

Shortly after sharing his diagnosis, Mr Dane joined the board of directors of Target ALS, a non-profit organisation dedicated to accelerating research and developing effective treatments for ALS.

Even as his condition progressed, Mr Dane remained vocal about the urgent need for research funding and improved treatment options, using his platform to raise awareness about a disease that affects thousands worldwide each year.

Beyond his health battle, the actor had long been open about personal struggles off-screen.

In 2011, he sought treatment for drug addiction from what his rep described as “pain medication, prescribed for a sports injury”, that he suffered.

Six years later, he revealed he had experienced a severe depressive episode, admitting he initially felt ashamed before turning to professional help.

In 2022 appearing on Dax Shepard’s ‘Armchair Expert’ podcast, he reflected on the pressures that came with sudden fame after his breakout role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and his determination to rebuild his life and be present for his family.

Mr Dane was married to actress and model Rebecca Gayheart. 

The pair separated in 2018 and initially filed for divorce, but the proceedings were later dismissed with Ms Gayheart filing to dismiss, noting she wanted to teach her daughters (Billie and Georgia) to “show up for family”.