Eric Dane, best known for his roles in *Grey’s Anatomy* and *Euphoria*, passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53 after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His family confirmed the news, expressing gratitude for the support from fans while requesting privacy during this difficult time.
Dane’s journey with ALS began with his diagnosis in 2024. In the months leading up to his death, he remained active and engaged, demonstrating an unwavering spirit. His final social media post on December 15, 2025, announced his appointment to the Board of Directors for Target ALS, an organization dedicated to advancing research and treatment for the disease.
Final Message of Determination
In his last Instagram post, Dane declared, “This disease takes something from me every day. But I won’t let it take my spirit.” His commitment to the ALS community was evident as he stated his eagerness to work with the Target ALS team to change the narrative surrounding ALS diagnoses. At that time, he had already participated in the organization’s “Ending ALS Starts With You” campaign and portrayed an ALS patient in the NBC drama *Brilliant Minds*.
Target ALS highlighted the significance of Dane’s perspective, noting that he joined a board composed of scientists, biotech leaders, and advocates—all working towards innovative solutions for ALS. Rather than retreating from public life, he was actively contributing to a cause that deeply affected him and countless others.
Impact on Family and Advocacy
Dane’s family described his passing as courageous, reflecting on how he became a passionate advocate for awareness and research throughout his illness. They shared that he spent his final days surrounded by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, emphasizing the importance of family during this challenging time.
The actor publicly shared his diagnosis in April 2025, stating, “I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” According to the Mayo Clinic, ALS is a progressive neurological disorder that leads to the degeneration of motor neurons, affecting muscle control over time. Symptoms can include weakness in limbs and difficulties with speech and swallowing.
Despite the challenges posed by his diagnosis, Dane continued to work in the entertainment industry. He expressed his determination to keep acting, sharing plans to resume filming *Euphoria* shortly after announcing his condition. His resilience was further illustrated during an interview with Diane Sawyer, where he candidly discussed the progression of his illness and the emotional toll it took on him and his family.
Dane’s final public appearances showcased his commitment to raising awareness about ALS. He participated in various interviews, including a December 2025 virtual panel where he discussed the complexities of portraying a character with ALS while managing his own health challenges. His honesty resonated with viewers, many of whom expressed admiration for his openness and determination.
Eric Dane’s legacy extends beyond his performances on screen. His advocacy for ALS awareness and research will continue to inspire those affected by the disease. As the world mourns the loss of a talented actor, his final message serves as a powerful reminder of the fight against ALS and the importance of community support in the face of adversity.
