Talented actor Eric Dane, who was in more than 100 episodes of medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, died on Thursday February 19, a tragedy which has left fans heartbroken
Eric Dane’s official cause of death has been confirmed as respiratory failure.
This condition is believed to have been caused by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a common type of motor neurone disease (MND), with which Eric was diagnosed last year. The actor died on Thursday February 19 aged 53, surrounded by friends, his devoted wife, and his two daughters.
Eric’s death certificate, obtained today by PEOPLE, states the actor died of respiratory failure, which is a common result of ALS. It is believed Eric’s ALS deteriorated to this point quickly, as he became too unwell to attend the Emmy Awards last month.
But the father of two, born in San Francisco, California, enjoyed a 35-year career, during which time he was in Grey’s Anatomy, Charmed, Euphoria and many more US TV series and films.
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Last week, Eric’s girlfriend, Janell Shirtcliff, shared a collection of photographs on her Instagram Stories capturing cherished moments together with the Charmed actor. Among the images were two showing Eric – whose progressive neurodegenerative condition affects nerve cells and leads to loss of muscle control – kissing Janell.
Also included was an affectionate selfie of the couple smiling, alongside footage of them singing together whilst driving across rugged terrain with dramatic cliffs in the background.
Eric was also survived by his two children, aged 15 and 13, pictures of whom have also been shared on social media. The entertainer announced he had ALS last year, but stressed he wanted to continue working.
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Speaking on Good Morning America in June, a tearful Eric said: “I wake up every day and I’m immediately reminded that this is happening… It’s not a dream. I don’t think this is the end of my story… I don’t feel like this is the end of me.”
Eric portrayed Dr Mark Sloan — aka McSteamy — in Grey’s Anatomy between 2006 and 2012, returning for a cameo in 2021. He was in nine episodes of fantasy drama Charmed in 2003 and 2004.
And his career accelerated, with roles in a variety of programmes since his departure from Grey’s Anatomy. Eric continued to film psychological teen drama Euphoria, a HBO show, even despite his illness. The third series, of which Eric is part, is yet to air.
Speaking about his ALS journey, defiant Eric had said: “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” The entertainer, though, lost his fight with the disease, around 5,000 new cases of which are diagnosed in the US every year.
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