Eric Dane, ‘McSteamy’ Star, Dies at 53 After Brave Battle with ALS
Hollywood lost one of its unforgettable faces. Eric Dane, best known as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, has passed away at 53 following a courageous fight with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), the neurodegenerative disease that gradually robs the body of muscle control.
In 2025, Dane went public with his diagnosis, revealing he first noticed weakness in his right hand. At first, he shrugged it off as fatigue from texting or overuse, but as the weakness worsened, multiple medical consultations led to the devastating confirmation: ALS. “I’ll never forget those three letters,” Dane shared, opening up about a reality few could imagine.
ALS attacks nerve cells controlling voluntary muscles, causing progressive weakness, stiffness, twitching, and ultimately paralysis. Despite the rapid progression—losing the use of his right arm by June 2025 and relying on a wheelchair full-time by October—Dane continued acting in Euphoria and The Countdown, showing remarkable resilience even as daily tasks became impossible.
He became a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research, using his platform to educate others while inspiring countless fans. Dane’s bravery extended beyond the screen, embodying strength and dignity in the face of a terminal illness.
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