Eric Dane, the American actor best known for portraying Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running medical drama 'Grey's Anatomy,' has died at the age of 53. His family confirmed the news through CBS and other media outlets, stating that he passed away on Thursday afternoon following a courageous fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive nervous system disorder also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

Born in San Francisco, Dane made his television debut in 1991 on the show 'Saved by the Bell' and rose to fame with his iconic role on 'Grey's Anatomy,' which he secured in 2006. Over the years, he appeared in 139 episodes of the series, earning acclaim and a devoted fan base. Dane's portrayal of the charming surgeon Mark Sloan became a defining part of the show, contributing significantly to its popularity during his tenure.

In addition to his work on 'Grey's Anatomy,' Dane starred in the critically acclaimed HBO drama 'Euphoria,' showcasing his versatility as an actor. His struggle with ALS, which he publicly announced last year, has stirred conversations around the disease and raised awareness about its impact. The loss of Dane is felt deeply by his family, friends, and a broad audience who admired his talent and contributions to the entertainment industry.