Reflecting on Eric Dane’s Departure from Grey’s Anatomy in Season 9
Eric Dane featured in seven seasons of Grey’s Anatomy before his character, Mark Sloan, met his demise in a tragic plane crash.
Dane joined the ABC medical drama during the second season in 2006 as the plastic surgeon Mark Sloan.
“I’m proud of [my career]. Everything contributed to where I am today,” Dane reflected in a Famous Last Words interview, which was released on Netflix just hours after his passing in February 2026. “There was a wealth of experiences—life experiences, personal, professional. When I really committed myself to the craft with focus and effort, I think I was able to produce some excellent work.”
Dane continued to appear on Grey’s through the ninth season’s premiere, during which his character succumbed to injuries from a private jet crash. Keep reading for more about Dane’s journey on Grey’s Anatomy:
Why Eric Dane Was Written Off the Show
In a 2024 episode of the “Armchair Expert” podcast, Eric Dane suggested that he was “let go” from the medical series.
“I think I was let go,” he remarked, clarifying that it wasn’t due to his stint in a treatment center in 2011 for prescription drug use. “It certainly didn’t help. I was beginning to become, like many actors who spend a long time on a show, quite expensive for the network.”
Dane elaborated, “The network understands that the show will succeed regardless of who remains in it. As long as they have their Grey, they’re content. I wasn’t the same person they originally hired, so I understood when I was let go.”
He also emphasized that show creator Shonda Rhimes was “incredibly supportive” during his exit.
“She fiercely protected us—publicly and privately,” he stated. “But I was probably fired. It wasn’t in a grand way, like, ‘You’re fired,’ more like, ‘You won’t be returning.’”
What Eric Dane Thought About His Last ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Scenes
“I think they handled that departure well,” Eric Dane expressed in a AOL Build Series interview in 2017. “I had a wonderful time with everyone, and I still consider Shonda a friend to this day.”
Eric Dane Says ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Helped His Sobriety
Eric Dane battled substance abuse issues before joining Grey’s Anatomy.
“I struggle with having too much free time,” Dane explained in Famous Last Words, which aired posthumously. “I needed structure, and [Grey’s Anatomy] provided just that. When we paused for the writers’ strike, I had months off and unfortunately slipped back into drugs and alcohol. I should have known better because I was nearly nine years sober at that point.”
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Cast and Crew React to Eric Dane’s Death
Eric Dane died in February 2026 at the age of 53 following a battle with ALS. The production company of the series, along with cast members and showrunners, have all expressed their condolences.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Eric Dane,” a statement from ABC and 20th Television stated. “His extraordinary talent and remarkable presence on Grey’s Anatomy made a lasting impression on audiences worldwide, and his courage and dignity during his battle with ALS inspired countless individuals. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and the many fans whose lives were enriched by his art.”
Dane is survived by his two daughters, whom he shares with Rebecca Gayheart.
If you or someone you know is facing challenges with substance abuse, please contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
