Eric Dane, who rose to stardom on Grey's Anatomy and earned the nickname "McSteamy" for his portrayal of a smooth-talking plastic surgeon, has died at 53. Melissa Bank, Dane's publicist, confirmed the actor's passing in a statement to USA TODAY.
Ten months ago, Dane announced he'd been diagnosed with A.L.S., the neurodegenerative disease also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
"With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS," Bank's statement read. "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."
In addition to Grey's Anatomy, Dane made memorable appearances in X-Men: The Last Stand, Marley & Me, Euphoria and Bad Boys: Ride or Die. He also reunited with Euphoria's Sydney Sweeney for the crime thriller Americana, which he played a charismatic villain in.
Dane continued to act despite his A.L.S. diagnosis, and three weeks ago he was slated to receive the Dean and Kathleen Rasmussen Advocate of the Year Award at the ALS Network gala. The San Francisco native had to miss the event, however, "due to the physical realities of living with ALS," the organization told USA TODAY.
Rest in peace, Eric.