Eric Dane, widely recognised for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53, less than a year after publicly sharing his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
A statement from his family confirmed that the actor died on Thursday afternoon, as per BBC News. They mentioned he spent his last days surrounded by loved ones. Tributes from colleagues and fans spread quickly throughout the entertainment industry.
In a message issued on behalf of his relatives, it was shared: ‘With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS.’
The statement added that he was with his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughters, Billie and Georgia. They were described as ‘the center of his world,’ 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.’
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Dane built a career that lasted for decades in television and cinema, as he became well-known for playing Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed ‘Dr. McSteamy,’ in Grey’s Anatomy. He then later took on the role of Cal Jacobs in Euphoria.
His screen credits also included roles in Charmed and The Last Ship, as well as films like Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, and Burlesque.
Born in San Francisco in 1972, he made his television debut in The Wonder Years in 1993, starting a career that would last more than three decades.
ALS, also sometimes known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rare neurological condition that gradually harms the nerve cells controlling muscles. This damage eventually impacts movement, speech, and breathing.
In an interview last summer on Good Morning America, Dane spoke openly about his diagnosis and said it made him ‘angry.’
‘Because, you know, my father was taken from me when I was young. And now, you know, there’s a very good chance I’m going to be taken from my girls while they’re very young,’ he explained.
He spent the last few months raising awareness about the illness and promoting understanding of motor neurone disease.
Messages of remembrance surfaced soon after news of his death. Actress Kim Raver reflected on working alongside him.
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Co-star Kevin McKidd posted a brief tribute as well, reading, ‘rest in peace buddy.’
Meanwhile, Euphoria creator Sam Levinson shared his own message, telling Variety.
‘I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric. Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift. Eric’s family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing,’ Levinson stated.
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Picture: Getty Images
