Actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles in the TV series Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has passed away at the age of 53, less than a year after revealing he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
In Euphoria, Dane portrayed Cal Jacobs, the head of the Jacobs family, while he became widely recognized as Dr. Mark Sloan in the long-running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy.
The California-born actor was diagnosed with ALS last year, the most common form of motor neuron disease.
Toward the end of his life, he strongly advocated for greater awareness and understanding of this devastating condition.
“With heavy hearts, we announce that Eric Dane passed away Thursday afternoon after a brave battle with ALS,” his family stated.
He was married to actress and model Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he had two children.
The family’s statement noted that Dane spent his final days surrounded by friends, his wife, and his daughters, Billie and Georgia, “who were the center of his world.”
“He will be missed immensely and will live forever in our hearts. Eric loved his fans and was endlessly grateful for the love and support he received,” the statement added.
Throughout his career, he also played Jason Dean in Charmed and Captain Tom Chandler in the action drama The Last Ship.
He appeared in notable films including Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, and Burlesque.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rare degenerative condition that leads to progressive muscle paralysis.
The disease affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control movement, gradually stripping patients of the ability to speak, eat, walk, and breathe independently.
Last summer, in an interview with ABC’s Good Morning America, Dane said the diagnosis made him “angry.”
“I lost my father when I was very young, and now there’s a probability that I will be taken from my girls while they are still very small,” he said. His father had committed suicide when Dane was seven.
Dane was born in 1972 in San Francisco and began his television career in 1993 on the series Wonder Years.
Colleagues from Grey’s Anatomy shared emotional tributes following his passing.
Kim Raver, who played Teddy Altman, recalled their moments on set: “During filming, his eyes would light up, and with a mischievous look, he would deliver a line with perfect comedic timing that would knock you off your feet.”
Kevin McKidd, who plays traumatologist Owen Hunt, posted on Instagram: “Rest in peace, my friend.”
Eric Dane was also remembered by Euphoria creator Sam Levinson, who told Variety: “I am heartbroken over the loss of our dear friend. Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift.”
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Source: Blic; Foto: AP