Eric Dane, star of ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Euphoria’, dead at 53
Film and television star Eric Dane, known for his work on popular projects like Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has passed away at the age of 53 following complications caused by ALS.
Dane, who had announced last year that he had been diagnosed with ALS, began struggling with symptoms in 2024 and had to enter full-time care by the end of 2025.
Confined to a wheelchair by October 2025, Dane had used his platform to spread awareness about the disease, appearing on Good Morning America to reveal that the entire ordeal was “sobering” as there was “a very good chance” he would be “taken from [his] girls very young.”
In a statement released by Dane’s family, it was announced that the actor succumbed to ALS complications on February 19th, 2026: “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS.”
“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,” the statement continued.
It continued, “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. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”
During Dane’s battle with ALS, his wife, actor Rebecca Gayheart, also openly spoke about the challenges posed by ALS, since they had become closer following years of separation.
Referring to their two children together, she said: “It’s not that they have the hopes of us being together – kids always dream of their parents getting back together, and I think now ours don’t because they understand the reality of the situation… And hopefully, what they see instead are two adults who are trying to be mature and focus on what’s important.”
According to the statement, Dane spent his last days surrounded by friends and family, including his two daughters “who were the center of his world”.
Dane is survived by Gayheart and their two children, Billie and Georgia.
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