Dane, who publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025, passed away on February 19, 2026. The date marks the 20th anniversary of his debut as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan in the Grey’s Anatomy season 2 episode titled “Yesterday,” which originally aired on February 19, 2006.

In that episode, described as “Derek and Addison are shaken by the arrival of a figure from their past,” Dane’s arrival as the charismatic plastic surgeon instantly altered the show’s trajectory—and cemented one of television’s most memorable nicknames.

His ALS Diagnosis

On April 10, 2025, Dane revealed he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive motor neuron disease for which there is currently no cure.

At the time, he told People in a statement, “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”

He added, “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”

Dane continued working following his diagnosis, returning to film season 3 of HBO’s Euphoria, which is now set to premiere on April 12, 2026.

A Fierce Advocate for ALS

Following news of his passing, nonprofit organization I AM ALS released a statement honoring Dane’s advocacy.

“We are heartbroken by the passing of our friend Eric Dane—a fierce advocate, a generous spirit, and a true champion in the movement to end ALS,” the organization said.

“Eric used his platform not for attention, but for action… He understood that ALS is not just a diagnosis; it is a call to action for families, for answers, and for change.”

The organization noted that Dane joined its leadership in the halls of Congress to fight for research funding and supported the Push for Progress Initiative. They added that his “impact will live on in the research being funded, the policies being advanced, and the community he helped grow.