Actor Eric Dane, best known for TV roles such as Dr. Mark Sloan on “Grey’s Anatomy” and Cal Jacobs on “Euphoria,” died Thursday.
The 53-year-old actor announced he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, last year and was set to release a memoir touching on the illness.
“I wake up every morning, and I’m immediately reminded that this is real — this illness, this challenge and that’s exactly why I’m writing this book,” Dane said at the time, according to the Associated Press.
Representatives of Dane said that he will be missed and highlighted his ALS advocacy.
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” his representatives told MS NOW. “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. Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”
Sam Levinson, creator of Euphoria, also remarked on the loss and remembered his time working with the actor.
“I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric,” Levinson said. “Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift. Eric’s family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing.”
HBO Max posted a statement on Instagram and memorialized his time on Euphoria, saying the actor was “incredibly talented.”
“We are deeply saddened by the news of Eric Dane’s passing,” the statement said. “HBO was fortunate to have worked with him on three seasons of Euphoria. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”
“Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments” will be released by The Open Field, a Penguin Random House imprint, this year.
Tim Collins is a platforms producer and editor at MS NOW.
