Eric 'McSteamy' Dane from 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Euphoria' dies aged 53

Eric Dane, star of 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Euphoria' has died aged just 53.

The father of two's death comes 10 months after the actor went public with his ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) diagnosis.

"He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the centre of his world," a statement from Dane's family read.

"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. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”

Eric's early career saw him land guest spots on shows like 'Saved by the Bell', 'Roseanne' and 'Married With Children', before he appeared on 'Charmed'.

He then joined 'Grey's Anatomy' as Mark Sloan in 2006, where he quickly became a main character due to his popularity with fans. In episode 17 of season two, his character's nickname 'McSteamy' was coined and instantly became a pop culture fixture.

Eric was open about his struggles with addiction and going to rehab, telling Dax Shepard on the 'Armchair Expert' podcast that he felt he was "let go" from Grey's in 2012 because he "wasn't the same guy they had hired.

In 2019, he starred as Cal Jacobs in 'Euphoria', having filmed the show's yet-to-be-released third season in a wheelchair due to his health. Eric revealed his ALS diagnosis in April last year, and in an interview with 'Good Morning America' in June, said he had lost the function of his right arm.

"I wake up every day, and I'm immediately reminded that this is happening," he told Diane Sawyer. "It's not a dream."

Eric is survived by his two teenage daughters and his wife.