Eric Dane, the versatile actor best known for his roles in HBO's Euphoria and ABC's Grey's Anatomy, has died at the age of 53 after a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. His family announced the news on Thursday, February 20, 2026, stating that Dane passed away that afternoon surrounded by loved ones in his home in Los Angeles. The announcement came nearly a year after Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis in April 2025, during which time he became a vocal advocate for ALS research and awareness.
Dane's family shared a heartfelt statement expressing their grief and highlighting his dedication to his loved ones and cause. "With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS," the family said. "He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world." They noted that throughout his illness, Dane had advocated passionately for greater awareness and funding for ALS research, aiming to support others facing the disease.
The family's message continued, emphasizing Dane's appreciation for his supporters. "Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received," they wrote. "The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time." Dane, born Eric Melvin Tupper on November 9, 1972, in San Diego, California, leaves behind his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, whom he married in 2004, and their daughters, born in 2010 and 2012.
Hollywood's reaction to Dane's death was swift and emotional, with co-stars and friends from across his three-decade career paying tribute on social media and in statements. Alyssa Milano, who collaborated with Dane during his recurring role as Jason Dean on Charmed from 2003 to 2004, posted a poignant reflection on Instagram. "I can’t stop seeing that spark in Eric’s eye right before he’d say something that would either make you spit out your drink or rethink your entire perspective," Milano wrote. "He had a razor-sharp sense of humor. He loved the absurdity of things. He loved catching people off guard."
Milano's tribute delved deeper into Dane's personal side, recalling his tenderness toward his family. "And when it came to his daughters and Rebecca, everything in him softened," she continued. "He carried them with him even in rooms where they weren’t present. You could see it in the way his voice changed when he said their names. A breathtakingly beautiful family." She also shared lighthearted memories, noting how Dane convinced her to get a pixie cut and nose piercing, and accompanied her when she found her rescue chihuahua, Lucy. "He called me ‘Milano,’ as if it was the only part of my name that mattered," she added. "My heart is with the people who were lucky enough to be his home."
Selma Blair, Dane's co-star from the early 2000s WB series Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane, shared a simple yet touching message on her Instagram Story, posting a clip of them together. "I love you. And yours," Blair wrote, capturing the brevity of grief.
Paul Walter Hauser, who appeared alongside Dane in the 2023 film Americana, reflected on their shared experiences in a post on Instagram. "We tried to book gigs, we tried to laugh at the pain and we tried to stay sober," Hauser wrote. "I’m glad we got to play together in Americana. I love you, man. I wish we had more time. Enjoy the arms of Father God. I’ll see you again. RIP #EricDane." Hauser's words underscored the camaraderie and mutual support between the actors during challenging times.
Sam Levinson, the creator of Euphoria, where Dane portrayed the complex character Cal Jacobs over three seasons from 2019 to 2022, issued a statement expressing profound sorrow. "I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric," Levinson said. "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." An HBO spokesperson echoed this sentiment, stating, "We are deeply saddened by the news of Eric Dane’s passing. He was incredibly talented and HBO was fortunate to have worked with him on three seasons of Euphoria. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time."
Dane's recent big-screen collaborators also mourned his loss. Martin Lawrence, who starred with him in the 2024 action-comedy Bad Boys: Ride or Die, posted on Instagram, "My condolences go out to the family of @realericdane. I can tell you firsthand — solid brotha, true professional, and brought that presence every single time. Much love! #ericdane #badboysfamilyforlife." Alexander Ludwig, another co-star from the film, shared on his Instagram Story, "Ugh this hurts so much. Will miss you Eric and loved our time together. You were a joy to work with."
Frank Grillo, Dane's co-star in the 2023 thriller Little Dixie, expressed devastation in an Instagram post. "My heart is broken," Grillo wrote. "We lost a good man @realericdane who I had the pleasure of sharing the screen with. We became pals and laughed often. My prayers go out to his beautiful family. See you on the other side brother." Similarly, Kevin McKidd from Grey's Anatomy, where Dane played Dr. Mark Sloan from 2006 to 2012, offered a concise tribute: "Rest in peace, buddy."
Other tributes highlighted Dane's broader impact. Ashton Kutcher, who worked with him in the 2010 romantic comedy Valentine's Day, posted on X (formerly Twitter), "The Franklin strip fanatics fantasy football league will miss Mr. Eric Dane. We know you’ll be watching from the booth. Miss you, buddy. Let’s keep fighting the fight to solve ALS." John Stamos, Dane's co-star in the 2006 film Wedding Wars, wrote on Instagram, "RIP, Buddy. Me and @realericdane played brothers years ago in a beautiful movie called, Wedding Wars. Good guy. Too soon. Xo J."
Nina Dobrev, from the 2022 film Redeeming Love, praised Dane's professionalism on her Instagram Story. "He was warm, generous, prepared, and so passionate about what he did," she wrote. "He led with kindness and made everyone on our set feel seen. ALS is a cruel and unforgiving disease. May his memory inspire more research, awareness, and progress toward a cure. He will be deeply missed. Sending love and heartfelt condolences to his family."
Maria Shriver, the journalist and former California first lady, shared her grief on X, focusing on Dane's advocacy. "I’m heartbroken by this devastating news about Eric Dane," Shriver wrote. "What a tragedy. He was so heroic the way he handled his diagnosis. He used his voice to let the world know what it was like living with ALS." She revealed that Dane had chosen her publishing imprint for his upcoming memoir, intended as a legacy for his family. "I was honored he chose my publishing imprint to publish his memoir," she added. "He told me he wanted his family to know how much he loved them, and he wanted to leave them a story they could be proud of. My love goes out to his family, and to all those battling this cruel disease, as well as all those caring for someone battling it. Godspeed, Eric. It was an honor to know you, and we will honor your story."
Dane's career spanned television and film, beginning with guest spots in the late 1990s before his breakout as Dr. Sloan on Grey's Anatomy, a role that earned him a dedicated fanbase for its blend of charm and vulnerability. His portrayal of the troubled father in Euphoria further showcased his range, earning critical acclaim. More recently, Dane appeared in high-profile projects like Bad Boys: Ride or Die and Americana, demonstrating his enduring appeal in Hollywood.
Following his ALS diagnosis announcement in April 2025, Dane openly discussed the progressive neurodegenerative disease, which affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. He joined organizations like the ALS Association to raise funds and awareness, participating in events and sharing his experiences to destigmatize the illness. His efforts aligned with a growing push in the entertainment industry for medical research, similar to campaigns led by stars like Zach Gottsagen and others affected by the disease.
The tributes from Dane's peers paint a picture of a man who balanced sharp wit with deep empathy, leaving a lasting impression both on set and off. As Hollywood grapples with this loss, many, like Kutcher and Dobrev, have called for continued action against ALS, noting the disease's devastating toll—currently affecting about 30,000 people in the U.S. alone, with no cure available. Dane's family has not announced funeral arrangements, but his legacy as an actor and advocate is expected to inspire ongoing conversations about health and resilience in the industry.
In the wake of Dane's passing, discussions around ALS research may gain renewed momentum, with advocates hoping his story will draw attention to the need for breakthroughs. Organizations such as the ALS Association have already seen an uptick in donations following celebrity involvements, and Dane's memoir, set for posthumous release under Shriver's imprint, could provide intimate insights into his journey. For now, the focus remains on supporting his family as they mourn a husband, father, and friend whose light touched countless lives.