Eric Dane, the actor best-known for starring in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53.
The news of his death comes 10 months after he announced that he’d been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is the most common form of motor neurone disease.
Dane’s death was confirmed in a statement shared by his family, which read: ‘With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS.’
They said that in his final days, the actor was 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,’ the statement sent to People read.
‘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.’
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane made his first appearance as Dr Mark Sloan in Grey’s Anatomy in 2006, fondly nicknamed ‘McSteamy’ by fans.
While he initially joined the show in a guest role, the popularity of his character resulted in him becoming a series regular.
In 2019, he made his debut as Cal Jacobs in Euphoria, the father of Jacob Elordi’s character Nate Jacobs.
Dane also appeared in films and TV shows including X-Men: The Last Stand, Valentine’s Day, The Basket, Gideon’s Crossing and Charmed.
Fans have expressed their grief following the news of Dane’s death, with one called @GideonGrowth writing on X: ‘It’s hard to process this. Eric Dane gave us characters that felt larger than life, yet deeply human.
‘Whether it was the charm and confidence he brought to Grey’s Anatomy or the intensity and vulnerability he showed in Euphoria, he had a way of commanding the screen without ever trying too hard.’
‘Eric Dane was one of a kind,’ @CoreyLord04 tweeted. ‘A loyal father, well-respected actor, and a benevolent man to fans, friends and colleagues as well.
‘It hurts to know that he left. But, I know that he touched lives with great talent, knowledge and kindness. And I believe we can carry his legacy.’
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