Dane played Dr. Mark Sloan, a.k.a. McSteamy, on the medical drama beginning in 2006.

Grey’s Anatomy pays tribute to Eric Dane after star’s death at 53: ‘Unforgettable presence’

Dane played Dr. Mark Sloan, a.k.a. McSteamy, on the medical drama beginning in 2006.

By Raechal Shewfelt

Raechal Shewfelt

Raechal Shewfelt is a writer at **. She has been working at EW since 2024. Her work has previously appeared on Yahoo and in American *Journalism Review* and *The Shreveport Times*.

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February 20, 2026 2:50 p.m. ET

Ellen Pompeo and Eric Dane on 'Grey's Anatomy' in 2006. Credit:

Scott Garfield/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

*Grey's Anatomy* is remembering Dr. Mark Sloan, after actor Eric Dane died Thursday at 53.

The actor died less than a year after going public about his struggle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.

The official *Grey's Anatomy *social media accounts posted tributes to Dane across platforms on Friday, with an image of the actor in character on the show, and a statement honoring the late star.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Eric Dane," the statement from ABC and 20th Television read. "His remarkable talent and unforgettable presence on *Grey’s Anatomy* left a lasting impact on audiences around the world, and his courage and grace during his battle with ALS inspired so many. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the many fans whose lives were touched by his work."

Portraying the character nicknamed McSteamy — in contrast to Patrick Dempsey's Dr. Derek Shepherd's moniker of McDreamy — Dane joined the medical drama in the second season.

In fact, Dane's first episode on the series aired on Feb. 19, 2006, putting his death on the 20th anniversary of his first* Grey's Anatomy* appearance. He remained part of the cast until a ninth season premiere on Sept. 27, 2012, when Mark died after he was in a plane crash.

He also appeared to Ellen Pompeo's Dr. Meredith Grey while she was in a coma in a 2021 episode.

Eric Dane's 10 McSteamy-est moments on 'Grey's Anatomy'

Eric Dane shares last words to his daughters in final interview: 'I stumbled sometimes, but I tried'

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Fans of the show shared their remembrances, too.

"Eric Dane gave us one of the most unforgettable characters on *Grey’s Anatomy*," one wrote. "I still remember the moments when Mark Sloan showed his softer, more vulnerable side — especially when he tried to become a better man and a better father. That growth, that humanity behind his confidence, is what made him feel so real."

Another noted that Mark evolved into a "better version of himself" on the series.

"We'll never forget his amazing job and his beautiful talent," wrote a third.

Eric Dane pictured in 2025.

VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty

The show's tribute comes on the same day that Dempsey spoke out about the loss of his longtime costar.

"He was the funniest man — he was such a joy to work with and I want to just remember him in that spirit because any time he was on set, he brought so much fun to it," Dempsey said Friday on *The Chris Evans Breakfast Show*. "He had a great sense of humor. He was easy to work with, we got along instantly. First scene was him, you know, in all his glory, coming out of the bathroom with the towel on looking amazing, making you feel completely out of shape and insignificant."

Demspey applauded his friend for having called attention to ALS.

"He did an incredible job at bringing awareness to this horrible disease and those remaining days," Dempsey said, "and it just reminds us that we all have to celebrate every day like it's our last day."

Prior to his death, Dane filmed scenes for *Euphoria *season 3, which will mark his final TV role.**

- Grey's Anatomy Fandom

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