Patrick Dempsey Leads Grey's Anatomy Cast in Emotional Tributes to Eric Dane
Grey's Anatomy alum Patrick Dempsey has shared a heartfelt tribute to his late co-star Eric Dane, who passed away at age 53 after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The actor's family confirmed his death on Thursday, just ten months after he publicly revealed his diagnosis of the progressive motor neurone disease.
A Beloved Character Remembered
Eric Dane was best known for his iconic role as Dr. Mark "McSteamy" Sloan on the ABC medical drama Grey's Anatomy from 2006 to 2012. He also gained recognition for his performance in the HBO series Euphoria and most recently appeared in Brilliant Minds, where he portrayed a firefighter concealing an ALS diagnosis.
Following news of his passing, tributes have poured in from fans, friends, and former colleagues across the entertainment industry. Patrick Dempsey, who worked closely with Dane for five years on Grey's Anatomy, spoke emotionally about his friend during an appearance on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on Virgin Radio.
Dempsey's Heartfelt Memories
"It's hard to put into words," Dempsey said, expressing particular sadness for Dane's children. "I feel really so sad for his children." The actor revealed he had been in regular contact with Dane until recently, noting that his friend's condition had deteriorated rapidly in the final weeks.
"I was corresponding with him, we were texting, so I spoke to him about a week ago," Dempsey shared. "He was really starting to lose his ability to speak. He was bedridden and it was very hard for him to swallow, so the quality of his life was deteriorating so rapidly."
Dempsey fondly remembered Dane's vibrant personality and professional presence: "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. He had a great sense of humour. He was easy to work with, we got along instantly."
Industry-Wide Tributes Pour In
Other Grey's Anatomy cast members joined Dempsey in honoring their former colleague. Kevin McKidd, who played Dr. Owen Hunt, posted "Rest in Peace, Buddy" on his Instagram story. Kim Raver, who portrayed Dr. Teddy Altman, wrote on Instagram that Dane was a "light" who brought joy both on set and with his family.
"You'd see it effortlessly shine from him on the set of Grey's as well as when he was with Rebecca and the girls," Raver wrote. "During filming, he'd get this twinkle in his eye and with a mischievous look, he would deliver with perfect comedic timing, a line of dialogue that would floor you! You will be missed."
Executive producer Krista Vernoff remembered Dane's "best hugs," while an ABC and 20th Television spokesperson praised his "remarkable talent and unforgettable presence" on Grey's Anatomy, noting that his "courage and grace during his battle with ALS inspired so many."
Understanding ALS
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form of motor neurone disease, accounting for approximately 60 to 70 percent of total MND cases. The condition affects both upper and lower motor neurons simultaneously, leading to progressive muscle weakness and deterioration.
Common symptoms include:
- Muscle wasting and weakness
- Stiffness and cramps
- Fasciculations (muscle rippling)
- Difficulty with speech, swallowing, and breathing as the disease progresses
Dempsey emphasized the importance of Dane's legacy in raising awareness about ALS, stating: "It's something that we have to remember and certainly in a world where there is just so much crisis, and there is so much tragedy that we really need to be grateful for every moment that we have."
Euphoria Creator and Co-Stars Remember Dane
Sam Levinson, creator of Euphoria where Dane played Cal Jacobs, added his own tribute: "I'm heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric. Working with him was an honour. Being his friend was a gift. Eric's family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing."
Ellen Pompeo, who played Dr. Meredith Grey on Grey's Anatomy, revealed in a pre-recorded video for the ALS Network Champions for Cures and Care Gala in January that she had reached out to Dane immediately after learning of his diagnosis. "As soon as I heard about [Dane's] diagnosis, I texted him, and I said: 'I'm here if you want to speak.' And my phone rang 30 seconds later," she shared.
Eric Dane is survived by his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia. The entertainment community continues to mourn the loss of an actor remembered not only for his talent but for the joy and humor he brought to every project and relationship.
