SYDNEY, 20 February 2026 – American actor Eric Dane, widely recognised for his iconic portrayal of Dr Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, continues to make headlines for his resilience and advocacy following his 2025 health diagnosis. As of February 2026, Dane has become a leading voice in the health community while maintaining an active presence in Hollywood.
Latest Updates: ALS Advocacy and Return to Set
In a significant update this week, Eric Dane confirmed he is returning to the set of the HBO hit series Euphoria to continue his acclaimed role as Cal Jacobs. This news comes just five days after Dane provided a public update on his journey with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a diagnosis he first revealed in April 2025.
His commitment to his craft despite physical challenges has earned him a spot on Time Magazine’s 100 Health 2026 List, published last week. The list honours individuals who have made significant contributions to health awareness; Dane was specifically cited for his advocacy in seeking a cure for ALS and his transparency regarding the disease.
Additionally, former co-star Ellen Pompeo recently shared insights into their enduring friendship, recalling their first emotional conversation following his diagnosis. Fans are also looking forward to his upcoming memoir, “Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments,” which is slated for release later this year under Maria Shriver’s publishing imprint.
Career Highlights and Filmography
Eric Dane’s career spans over three decades, beginning with guest spots on classic 90s sitcoms before transitioning into major television dramas and feature films. He is best known for his long-running stint on Grey’s Anatomy and his lead role as Captain Tom Chandler in the post-apocalyptic series The Last Ship.
| Year(s) | Title | Role | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | The Basket | Tom Emery | Film |
| 2000 | Gideon’s Crossing | Dr. Wyatt Cooper | TV Series |
| 2003–2004 | Charmed | Jason Dean | TV Series |
| 2006 | X-Men: The Last Stand | James Madrox / Multiple Man | Film |
| 2006–2012 | Grey’s Anatomy | Dr. Mark Sloan | TV Series |
| 2010 | Valentine’s Day | Sean Jackson | Film |
| 2014–2018 | The Last Ship | CO Tom Chandler | TV Series |
| 2019–Present | Euphoria | Cal Jacobs | TV Series |
| 2025 | Brilliant Minds | Guest Star (Firefighter) | TV Series |
Personal Life and Recent Projects
Beyond his primary roles, Dane has recently taken on guest appearances that mirror his real-life experiences. In late 2025, he guest-starred as a firefighter battling ALS in the series Brilliant Minds, a performance praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
On the personal front, Dane has been the subject of media interest regarding his private life following his 2025 diagnosis. While he has remained focused on his health and career, he has been spotted at various industry events supporting ALS research and has been linked to director Janell Shirtcliff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Eric Dane’s latest health update?
As of February 2026, Eric Dane is actively managing his ALS diagnosis. He recently announced his return to the Euphoria set and continues to advocate for ALS research, recently being named to Time’s 100 Health list for his efforts.
Is Eric Dane still in Euphoria?
Yes, Eric Dane remains a cast member of Euphoria. Despite his health challenges, he is scheduled to return to filming for the upcoming season this month.
When is Eric Dane’s memoir being released?
His memoir, titled “Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments,” is expected to hit bookshelves in 2026. The book will cover his time on Grey’s Anatomy, his role in Euphoria, and his personal battle with ALS.
What was Eric Dane’s first major TV role?
While he appeared in shows like Saved by the Bell and Roseanne early in his career, his first recurring role in a medical drama was as Dr. Wyatt Cooper in Gideon’s Crossing (2000), followed by a significant arc in Charmed as Jason Dean.