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Grey's Anatomy Honors Eric Dane's Legacy
27 Feb
Summary
- Eric Dane, known as McSteamy, passed away after battling ALS.
- His final moments on Grey's Anatomy were honored with a tribute montage.
- Dane reflected on addiction struggles contributing to his character's exit.
The beloved ABC series Grey's Anatomy recently featured a heartfelt tribute to actor Eric Dane, who played Dr. Mark Sloan, also known as McSteamy. The episode, which aired on February 26, 2026, included a touching montage of his character's most memorable moments, accompanied by Snow Patrol's "Chasing Cars" and a dedication. This segment followed the news of Dane's death on February 19, 2026, after a fight with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive nervous system disease.
Dane joined Grey's Anatomy in its second season in 2005, becoming a significant part of the show until his departure in 2012. Reflecting on his exit in a 2024 podcast interview, Dane suggested that his struggles with addiction at the time may have contributed to his character's storyline concluding. He noted that while his addiction didn't directly lead to his firing, his evolving personal circumstances and increasing cost as an actor likely factored into the decision.
Executive producer Shonda Rhimes released a statement on February 19, 2026, remembering Dane as a gifted actor whose portrayal of Dr. Sloan left a lasting impact. She expressed gratitude for his artistry and spirit, extending condolences to his family and loved ones. Dane had publicly announced his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. Grey's Anatomy continues to air on ABC and stream on Hulu.
