The cast of “Grey’s Anatomy” and creator Shonda Rhimes have spoken out following the passing of Eric Dane. The actor, who played Dr. Mark Sloan in 145 episodes of the ABC medical drama, died on February 19 after a battle with ALS.

On behalf of his company, Shondaland, Rhimes wrote: “Eric Dane was a beloved member of the Shondaland family and ‘Grey’s Anatomy.’ He was truly a talented actor whose portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan left an indelible mark on the series and on audiences worldwide.”

“We are grateful for the artistic talent, spirit, friendship, and compassion he shared with us over the years. Our hearts go out to his family, loved ones, and all those who were touched by his work.”

The cast of “Grey’s Anatomy” pays tribute to Eric Dane – Image 1.

The image of Dr. Mark Sloan, portrayed by Eric Dane, has become an iconic image of the “Grey’s Anatomy” series.

Kim Raver, who played Dr. Teddy Altman in “Grey’s Anatomy,” also posted on Instagram on Thursday after news of Eric Dane’s passing was announced.

“Eric was a light. You would see that light shining naturally from him on the set of Grey’s Anatomy as well as when he was with Rebecca and the daughters. During filming, he would have that sparkling eye and with that mischievous look, he would deliver those perfectly timed funny lines that would make you laugh! We will miss him,” Raver wrote. “My love and condolences to Rebecca and the daughters. We loved him.”

Longtime executive producer Krista Vernoff shared a screenshot of a text message conversation with Eric Dane in 2021 when he returned to the show for a guest appearance, nine years after he left (and his character died). Mark appeared in an episode in 2021, as part of Meredith’s dream. Dane appeared on screen alongside Chyler Leigh, who played Lexie Grey (and also died in the plane crash that killed Mark’s character).

“I called Eric and he answered immediately. I asked him if he was coming back? I knew it was a pandemic and filming was a nightmare, but we were going to film on the beach and social distancing because the world needed joy, and Mark and Lexie were joy. He asked about the location and time,” she captioned her post. “When I arrived on set that day, he said, ‘We’re breaking the rules and hugging, right?’ What I’ll remember most about Eric Dane is his hugs. The most amazing hugs. Oh, my friend. I pray you rest in peace.”

Eric Dane, who played the character known as “McSteamy,” joined “Grey’s Anatomy” in season 2 as a guest star. However, audiences quickly fell in love with the character, and he returned in season 3 as the main character. He made his final appearance in the second episode of season 9, when Mark died after being taken off life support following a plane crash. Creator Rhimes often said that this character was one of her favorites.

The cast of “Grey’s Anatomy” pays tribute to Eric Dane – Photo 2.

Kevin McKidd, who played Dr. Owen Hunt in “Grey’s Anatomy” from season 5, also paid tribute to Dane on Thursday night, posting a photo of Dane on his Instagram Stories, writing: “Rest in peace, my friend.”

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Eric Dane,” ABC and 20th Television said in a statement. “His extraordinary talent and unforgettable presence on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide, and his courage and serenity in his battle against ALS inspired so many. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the many fans whose lives were touched by his work.”

In April 2025, just 11 months before his death, Dane announced that he had been diagnosed with ALS. Last month, at the ALS Network Champions for Cures & Care gala, actress Pompeo revealed in a pre-recorded video that she texted Dane immediately after learning of his diagnosis.

“As soon as I heard about his diagnosis, I texted him and said, ‘I’m here if you want to talk.’ And my phone rang 30 seconds later,” she said at the time.