‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Cast and Crew Pay Tribute to Eric Dane: He “Left an Indelible Mark”

Shonda Rhimes, Kevin McKidd, James Pickens Jr. and more behind the ABC medical drama are honoring the late actor who portrayed plastic surgeon Mark Sloan, aka "McSteamy." Eric Dane in 'Grey's Anatomy.' Gale Adler/ABC/Courtesy Everett Collection Share on Facebook Share on X Google Preferred Share to Flipboard Show additional share options Share on LinkedIn Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share on Tumblr Share on Whats App Send an Email Print the Article Post a Comment Logo text The cast and crew of Grey’s Anatomy are paying homage to Eric Dane. Dane died Thursday afternoon after a battle with ALS. He was 53. The actor appeared in 10 seasons of the ABC medical drama, where he portrayed plastic surgeon Mark Sloan, also known as “McSteamy.” Dane portrayed the character in seasons two through nine, the latter of which was where Mark died. He made one more appearance on Grey’s Anatomy‘s for a cameo during the 17th season. Series creator Shonda Rhimes shared a statement with The Hollywood Reporter on behalf of Shondaland, noting, “Eric Dane was a beloved member of the Shondaland and Grey’s Anatomy families. He was truly a gifted actor whose portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan left an indelible mark on the series and on audiences around the world.” Related Stories News Eric Dane Gives Final Advice to His Daughters in Netflix's Posthumous Interview Series, 'Famous Last Words' TV Patrick Dempsey Recalls Eric Dane's Final Days, "Mutual Respect" as 'Grey's Anatomy' Co-Stars “We are grateful for the artistry, spirit, friendship and humanity he shared with us for so many years,” Rhimes continued. “Our hearts are with his family, loved ones, and all who were touched by his work.” ABC and 20th Television released a joint statement, which read, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Eric Dane. His remarkable talent and unforgettable presence on Grey’s Anatomy left a lasting impact on audiences around the world, and his courage and grace during his battle with ALS inspired so many. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the many fans whose lives were touched by his work.” Kevin McKidd, who has appeared on the show from season five through 22, portraying Dr. Owen Hunt, wrote on his Instagram Story, “Rest in Peace Buddy.” James Pickens Jr., another longtime star of Grey’s Anatomy, also wrote on his Instagram Story, “Rest in Peace.” Krista Vernoff, who has worked as a producer on the series over its many years on air, posted screenshots of her text messages with Dane, in which they discussed his 2021 Grey’s Anatomy cameo. “I called Eric and he answered immediately. I said will you come back? I know it’s a pandemic and shooting is a nightmare but we’re gonna do it on the beach and keep our social distance because the world needs joy and Mark and Lexie are joy,” she wrote on Instagram. “He said where and when. When I came to set that day, he said, we’re breaking the rules and hugging now right?” Vernoff concluded her post, “What I will remember most about Eric Dane are his hugs. The best hugs. Oh my friend. I wish you peace.” Kim Raver, Dr. Teddy Altman on Grey’s Anatomy, penned a heartfelt tribute on Instagram alongside photos with Dane, writing, “Eric was a light. You’d see it effortlessly shine from him on the set of Grey’s as well as when he was with Rebecca and the girls. During filming he’d get this twinkle in his eye and with a mischievous look, he would deliver with perfect comedic timing, a line of dialogue that would floor you! You will be missed.” Sarah Drew, who played Dr. April Kepner from 2009-2022, took to her Instagram Stories on Friday to reshare a plethora of posts made in Dane’s honor. She also wrote, “Heartbroken for this tremendous loss. Eric was an incredible presence as an actor and as a human and he will be profoundly missed. Sending so much love to his family.” Read More About: Eric Dane Grey's Anatomy Shonda rhimes THR Newsletters Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day Subscribe Sign Up More from The Hollywood Reporter Live Feed Kelly Clarkson Reveals Why She Made the “Hard” Decision to End Her Talk Show: “The Dynamic Changed”