Eric Danes Health: What Is ALS & How Did He Die?

Eric Dane, best known for his roles on Euphoria and Grey’s Anatomy, revealed in April 2025 that he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease.Less than a year later, he died on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53.

After revealing his diagnosis, the actor continued working when possible and used his public platform to advocate for research and support for people living with ALS.In late September 2025, Eric traveled to Washington, D.C.

with the nonprofit I Am ALS to meet with lawmakers and push for the reauthorization of the ACT for ALS — federal legislation that provides research funding and access to novel treatments.During those meetings, he spoke about the urgency of expanding support for patients and told advocates he plans to “fight to the last breath” for progress.

Alongside his advocacy work, Dane’s family life remained central.He shared two daughters, Billie and Georgia, with his wife, Rebecca Gayheart; their family worked to navigate his health journey together, with Gayheart opening up about how they shared the diagnosis with their children and continued to support one another day by day.

To learn more about Eric, his career and his illness, keep reading.Who Was Eric Dane? Eric was known for quite a few film and TV roles, but his most recent one is playing Cal Jacobs in HBO’s hit series Euphoria.

Among his most famous previous roles were playing Mark Sloan in Grey’s Anatomy and Captain Tom Chandler in The Last Ship.The San Francisco native also appeared in the shows Saved By the Bell, The Wonder Years, Gideon’s Crossing, Charmed, Private Practice and Wireless.

How Old Was Eric Dane When He Died? Eric was 53 years old as of February 2026.He was born on November 9, 1972.

Eric Dane’s Health In April 2025, Eric told People about his diagnosis with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” the actor revealed.

“I am grateful to ...