Eric Dane made heartbreaking final post before he died from ALS aged 53
Eric Dane spent the last year of his life working hard to raise awareness of the devastating motor neuron disease that saw the Grey's Anatomy star pass away this week at the age of 53.
The actor, also known for his roles in Charmed and Euphoria, sadly died on Thursday afternoon (February 19) following a courageous struggle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fast-moving disease that he revealed publicly in April 2025.
Dane, who was best known for his role as Dr. Mark ‘McSteamy’ Sloan on medical drama Grey's Anatomy, used his profile in the ensuing months to campaign for better ALS treatments and to make people more aware of the condition.
Just a couple of months before his sad death from the degenerative illness, which has no known cause or cure, the father-of-two made his last ever social media post, sharing another major commitment to help advance the fight against ALS, as well as a tragic insight into how it was affecting him.
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In the days just before Christmas, Dane announced that he was joining the board of motor neuron disease charity Target ALS, which aims to break down barriers to research and improve data sharing so that more effective treatments can be found.
“This disease takes something from me every day. But I won’t let it take my spirit. Target ALS embodies that relentless spirit, and that’s why I’m joining the Board,"
Target ALS said at the time that Dane was a 'powerful advocate' and shared their pride in 'Dr Sloan' joining the board, saying: "We’re proud to share an important announcement: Eric Dane has joined the Target ALS Board of Directors, deepening his commitment to accelerating ALS research and driving meaningful change for the ALS community.”
The organization added: "His decision to join our Board reflects the same relentless spirit he brings to his personal journey.”
Sharing a picture of the Grey's Anatomy star, Target ALS also shared Dane's final public statement on the disease, with him saying: “I’m looking forward to working alongside the Target ALS team to continue pushing the limits of what’s possible and changing what it means to get an ALS diagnosis.
"This community deserves effective treatments, and I want to do my part to deliver them.”
Tragically, just two months later, Dane passed away from the devastating disease, which progressively causes the loss of the ability to move, eat, speak, or even breathe without assistance.
A statement from his representatives in the wake of his tragic death reads: “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife [actor Rebecca Gayheart] and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.
“Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always.
"Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”
Dane married Rebecca Gayheart in 2004. Their first daughter, Billie Beatrice Dane, was born in March 2010. Their second daughter, Georgia Geraldine Dane, was born in December 2011. In 2018, Gayheart filed for divorce, but after seven years of separation, in March 2025, she filed to dismiss her divorce.
William Morgan