Ashhar Alam/New Delhi

Actor Eric Dane, widely recognised for his performances in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53. His death certificate, obtained by People magazine, confirms respiratory failure as the immediate cause, with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cited as an underlying condition.

Dane passed away on Thursday, February 19, nearly a year after he publicly disclosed his ALS diagnosis. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Gay heart, and their daughters, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13.

In a statement shared with People, his family said he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after what they described as a courageous struggle with the progressive illness. They also highlighted his efforts to raise awareness about ALS during his battle with the disease and requested privacy as they grieve.

ALS, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a degenerative neurological disorder that gradually damages nerve cells, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. While treatments can help manage symptoms and potentially slow progression, there is no known cure.

Dane revealed his diagnosis in April 2025, expressing gratitude for the support of his family as they navigated what he called a new chapter. At the time, he said he intended to continue acting and soon returned to filming the third season of Euphoria, reprising his role as Cal Jacobs’s just days after going public with his condition.

His first on-screen appearance after the announcement came in Brilliant Minds, where he portrayed a firefighter and 9/11 hero confronting an ALS diagnosis, a role he later described as deeply personal and emotionally demanding.

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Earlier this year, Dane was slated to receive the Advocate of the Year honour at the ALS Network’s Champions for Cures and Care Gala. However, he withdrew shortly before the event due to health challenges. The organisation later commended his resilience and commitment to advancing awareness and research.

Dane’s career spanned television and film, but in his final months, he became equally known for his advocacy, using his platform to spotlight a disease that continues to affect thousands worldwide.