Eric Dane, the charismatic actor beloved as “McSteamy” on Grey’s Anatomy and Cal Jacobs on Euphoria, passed away on February 19, 2026, at age 53 after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His death, announced just 10 months after he publicly shared his diagnosis in April 2025, has prompted an outpouring of love from Hollywood, fans, and those he touched through his work and advocacy. This tribute honors his remarkable journey, drawing on verified reports from People, TMZ, Deadline, and his family’s statement to deliver a complete, respectful remembrance.
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| Eric Dane Dead: 'Grey's Anatomy' “McSteamy” Actor Was 53 |
Eric Dane’s Final Moments (Tribute) With heavy hearts, his family shared: “Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife [Rebecca Gayheart], and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.” In those quiet last hours, the man who lit up screens with charm and intensity found peace at home in Los Angeles, enveloped by the family he cherished above all. He had become a passionate ALS advocate, raising awareness and funds even as the disease progressed. His final chapter reflected the same quiet strength he brought to every role and every challenge.
Hollywood Remembers Eric Dane: Stars React to Eric Dane’s Death Tributes poured in immediately, highlighting Dane’s warmth, humor, and kindness.
- Alyssa Milano Remembers Eric Dane (Charmed co-star and former love interest): Milano posted a deeply personal Instagram tribute recalling their on-screen romance as Phoebe Halliwell’s boyfriend Jason Dean (seasons 5–6) and their real-life relationship. “I can’t stop seeing that spark in Eric’s eye right before he’d say something that would either make you spit out your drink or rethink your entire perspective. He had a razor-sharp sense of humor. He loved the absurdity of things. He loved catching people off guard. And when it came to his daughters and Rebecca, everything in him softened… He convinced me to get my pixie cut and my nose piercing. He also was with me on the walk when we found Lucy, my beloved rescue chihuahua. He called me ‘Milano,’ as if it was the only part of my name that mattered. My heart is with the people who were lucky enough to be his home.”
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| Eric Dane's 'Charmed' Co-Star Alyssa Milano Pens Heartfelt Tribute to Beloved Actor - Parade |
- Selma Blair on Eric Dane’s Passing: Blair, who shared the screen with Dane in the 1999–2000 WB sitcom Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane, reposted a throwback clip on Instagram Stories with the simple, heartfelt message: “@realericdane I love you. And yours.” She later added that her “heart is broken for his girls,” offering a tender nod to his daughters amid her own health journey with multiple sclerosis.
- Ashton Kutcher Mourns Eric Dane: The Valentine’s Day (2010) co-star posted on X: “The Franklin strip fanatics fantasy football league will miss Mr. Eric Dane. We know you’ll be watching from the booth. Miss you, buddy. Let’s keep fighting the fight to solve ALS.” Kutcher’s message blended personal camaraderie with a powerful call to continue Dane’s ALS advocacy work.
Eric Dane Remembered by Charmed Cast Beyond Milano’s emotional words, the Charmed family’s collective warmth underscored Dane’s impact during his 2003–2004 arc. Colleagues remembered how he brought humor and heart to the set, channeling real emotions into the characters’ dramatic breakup scene. Milano has noted in past interviews (including the Men of Charmed documentary) that she drew from their off-screen history to make those moments authentic.
Eric Dane’s Legacy and Friends: Hollywood Remembers Eric Dane Dane’s career spanned decades, from early guest spots on Saved by the Bell and Roseanne to breakout success as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy (debuting exactly 20 years before his death on Feb. 19, 2006). Fans worldwide fell for “McSteamy,” the charming plastic surgeon whose on-screen romance with Lexie Grey and tragic plane-crash exit in season 9 became TV legend. He later delivered critically acclaimed work as the complex Cal Jacobs on HBO’s Euphoria and led The Last Ship.
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| Eric Dane Died on 20th Anniversary of His First 'Grey's Anatomy' Appearance as Mark Sloan |
His legacy extends far beyond acting. After struggling with addiction and personal challenges (including a 2011 rehab stay and a 2018 divorce filing later dismissed), Dane emerged as a devoted father and, post-diagnosis, a fierce ALS warrior. Friends like Euphoria creator Sam Levinson called working with him “an honor” and being his friend “a gift.” Paul Walter Hauser (Americana co-star) wrote, “I love you, man. I wish we had more time.” Nina Dobrev (Redeeming Love) praised his kindness on set: “He led with kindness and made everyone feel seen.”
Dane is survived by wife Rebecca Gayheart, daughters Billie (born 2010) and Georgia (born 2011), and a global community forever changed by his presence.
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| All About Eric Dane's 2 Kids, Daughters Billie and Georgia |
Eric Dane’s Enduring Impact In an industry often defined by fleeting fame, Eric Dane leaves behind a blueprint for resilience, humor in the face of adversity, and using one’s platform for good. His ALS advocacy—launched publicly in 2025—has already amplified research conversations and funding efforts. As tributes continue, one truth stands clear: the spark Milano described, the kindness Kutcher and Blair honored, and the characters that made us laugh, cry, and swoon will live on.
Rest in peace, Eric. You were deeply loved, and your light continues to shine.


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