Actor Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan in the hit medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has died at the age of 53, US media reported on Thursday.
Dane had publicly announced last year that he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder.
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” his family said in a statement cited by CBS and other news outlets.
Born in San Francisco, Dane began his television career in 1991 with a guest appearance on the series Saved by the Bell. He rose to international fame in 2006 as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, appearing in 139 episodes until 2021.
In addition to his iconic role in Grey’s Anatomy, Dane played Jason Dean in the fantasy drama Charmed, Captain Tom Chandler in the action drama The Last Ship, and appeared in HBO’s acclaimed series Euphoria.
Dane’s contributions to television over three decades earned him recognition for his versatility and screen presence, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans worldwide.
