Eric Dane's 'Grey's Anatomy' Co-star Chyler Leigh Breaks Silence With Heartbreaking Tribute

Michelle SteinSat, February 21, 2026 at 6:28 PM UTC

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(Randy Holmes/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)

Eric Dane's Grey's Anatomy costar Chyler Leigh just broke her silence on the actor's death with a heartbreaking tribute.

On Saturday, Feb. 21, Leigh—who played Dane's character Mark Sloan's (aka McSteamy) love interest, Lexie Grey, on the ABC medical drama—opened up about his death at 53 following a battle with ALS.

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“The last 48 hours have been devastating,” Leigh, 43, told E! News. “I never thought I would be using the term ‘had or was,’ but here we are. And I hate it.”

She continued, "Eric had a heart of gold. His humor and, especially, his laugh was infectious. He was a deeply intelligent man who could carry a philosophical conversation for hours even while we were on set."

To conclude her tribute, Leigh declared, "He was an amazing father and loved his girls FIERCELY. Incredibly passionate about his work and the causes he kept close to his heart.”

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Dane died on February 19 and is survived by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart (they were separated, but she withdrew her 2018 divorce filing in March 2025), and their two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14. He revealed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025.

In Grey's Anatomy, Leigh joined at the end of Season 3 as the main character Meredith Grey's (Ellen Pompeo) half-sister. Her character was killed off in the Season 8 finale in a plane crash. Although Dane's character initially survived the same crash, McSteamy died in the Season 9 premiere.

Dane's family confirmed his real-life death in a statement shared with Parade on Feb. 19.

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” the statement read. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.”

The message continued, "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,” the statement continued. “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.”

Next: Eric Dane’s Widow Rebecca Gayheart Spotted for First Time Since His Death

This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”