Hollywood friends and co-stars pay tribute

Eric Dane has died aged 53 after battling ALS, with colleagues praising his kindness and talent
Eric Dane has died at the age of 53 following a battle with ALS, prompting tributes from colleagues across television and film who remembered him for his talent and generosity.
The actor, widely recognised for playing Dr Mark “McSteamy” Sloan in Grey’s Anatomy, Cal Jacobs in Euphoria and Tom Chandler in The Last Ship, passed away on Thursday afternoon. He publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025.
In a statement, his representatives said, “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.”
Euphoria creator Sam Levinson told The Hollywood Reporter, “I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric. 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 and the official Euphoria account added, “We are deeply saddened by the news of Eric Dane’s passing. He was incredibly talented and HBO was fortunate to have worked with him on three seasons of Euphoria. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”
Selma Blair shared a clip of her Dane on The WB’s Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane, on her Instagram Story with the caption, “I love you. And yours.”
Nina Dobrev wrote, “Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Eric. He was warm, generous, prepared, and so passionate about what he did. He led with kindness and made everyone on our set feel seen. ALS is a cruel and unforgiving disease. May his memory inspire more research, awareness, and progress toward a cure.”
Alyssa Milano reflected on his humour and devotion to his family, while Kevin McKidd and James Pickens Jr. shared brief messages of remembrance. Tributes continue to highlight Dane’s lasting impact on colleagues and audiences alike.
The Franklin strip fanatics fantasy football league will miss Mr. Eric Dane. We know you’ll be watching from the booth. Miss you, buddy. Let’s keep fighting the fight to solve ALS. pic.twitter.com/00TtwmQHAK
— ashton kutcher (@aplusk) February 20, 2026
I’m heartbroken by this devastating news about Eric Dane. What a tragedy. He was so heroic the way he handled his diagnosis. He used his voice to let the world know what it was like living with ALS.
I was honored he chose my publishing imprint to publish his memoir. He told me… pic.twitter.com/0A61G2uVcd
— Maria Shriver (@mariashriver) February 20, 2026
Eric Dane was a good man. We weren’t lifelong friends, but we crossed paths enough for me to know his strength and his heart. ALS is merciless. My thoughts are with his family.
Rest easy 🪽 pic.twitter.com/mMDOxxiYlE
— Robert Patrick 🇺🇸 (@robertpatrickT2) February 20, 2026



