Eric Dane, 'Charmed', 'Grey’s Anatomy' and 'Euphoria' star, dies at 53
Eric Dane (photo: Getty Images)
On February 19, American actor Eric Dane, known for his roles in the series Charmed, Grey’s Anatomy, and Euphoria, passed away at the age of 53. The cause of death was a rare incurable disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to BBC.
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Eric Dane’s passing
According to the actor’s official representative, Eric Dane spent his final days surrounded by his closest loved ones.
"With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. 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," the statement said.
The actor publicly disclosed his diagnosis in spring 2025. He shared that the first symptoms appeared as weakness in his right hand, which prompted him to seek medical attention.
Eric Dane (photo: Getty Images)
Despite his serious illness, Dane tried to remain active and continued working as long as his physical condition allowed.
"At the end of the day, just, all I want to do is spend time with my family and work a little bit if I can. I don’t think this is the end of my story. I just don’t feel like, in my heart, I don’t feel like this is the end of me," he shared.
Later, the disease progressed rapidly. By June 2025, the actor had completely lost the use of his right hand. In the fall, his speech became slurred, and by October, he had to rely on a wheelchair.
What is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord responsible for voluntary muscle movement.
Symptoms can begin with speech difficulties or limb weakness and gradually spread throughout the body.
The disease leads to progressive muscle paralysis, breathing problems, weight loss, and cognitive decline.
Currently, there is no effective treatment for ALS. In most cases, life expectancy after diagnosis is three to five years.
However, there are exceptions, for example, theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking lived more than half a century with the disease.
Brief biography of Eric Dane
Eric William Dane was born on November 11, 1972, in San Francisco, United States.
During his student years, he was active in sports and played water polo, but after participating in a theatrical production of All My Sons, he decided to pursue a career in acting.
Eric Dane (photo: Getty Images)
In 1993, Dane moved to Los Angeles, where he began his career in the film industry. He appeared in TV series such as The Wonder Years, Married… with Children, and Roseanne, which helped him gain the attention of directors.
Later, the actor took on roles in well-known projects, including All My Children and Grey’s Anatomy, which brought him widespread popularity.
Other notable works include the films Open Water 2: Adrift, X-Men: The Last Stand, and the series Euphoria.
Eric Dane (photo: Getty Images)
