“Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria” star Eric Dane’s cause of death has been confirmed.
People magazine, which obtained his death certificate, reports the cause was respiratory failure with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, as an underlying cause of death.
Dane, 53, who died last month, announced he had been diagnosed with ALS in April 2025.
He is survived by his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two children, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13.
ALS is a progressive degenerative disease that affects the nerve cells, leading to paralysis of the muscles, according to the Mayo Clinic. There is no cure for ALS, but progress can be slowed with medication and physical therapy. Most patients die within three to five years of a diagnosis.
“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,” his family said in a statement after his death. “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.”
A memoir by Dane is scheduled to be published in late 2026.
