Euphoria Cast Responds to Eric Dane’s Passing at 53: Sydney Sweeney and Others Share Their Thoughts

The Euphoria cast is paying tribute to their co-star Eric Dane following his passing at 53 after a battle with ALS.

Dane, who portrayed Jacob Elordi’s father, Cal, since the series’ inception, announced his diagnosis shortly before filming commenced for the show’s final episodes.

“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” he stated in an April 2025 announcement before season 3. “I’m thankful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter. I feel fortunate to continue working and am eager to return to the set of Euphoria next week. I kindly ask for privacy for my family and me during this time.”

In the wake of his passing, an HBO representative honored Dane in a statement, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the news of Eric Dane’s passing. He was immensely talented, and HBO was lucky to have collaborated with him for three seasons of Euphoria. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this challenging period.”

Euphoria, which debuted in 2019, initially centered on troubled high schooler Rue (Zendaya) as she battled to stay sober post-rehab. The acclaimed HBO series was quickly renewed for a second season following its premiere, but it took nearly three years before new episodes aired.

Season 3 was initially scheduled to premiere on HBO in 2025 but faced various setbacks, including creator Sam Levinson’s commitment to his short-lived series, The Idol. The simultaneous WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes in late 2023 further delayed production.

Ultimately, Euphoria resumed production later that year. After season 2 wrapped, the cast experienced another loss with Angus Cloud’s passing at age 25 in July 2023 due to an accidental overdose.

Dane was open about his determination to continue working despite his battle with ALS.

“I refuse to submit my purpose to this disease. I just can’t do that,” he shared during a November 2025 panel discussion linked to I AM ALS. “I have no reason to feel upbeat on any given day. I don’t think anyone would fault me for retreating and spending time crying in my room. To my surprise, I realized I wasn’t built that way, as I thought that would be my reaction.”

Euphoria is set to return for its third and final season on April 12, expected to honor both Cloud and Dane.

Scroll down to see how Dane was remembered by his Euphoria co-stars:

Sam Levinson

“I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric. Collaborating with him was an honor,” said the creator of the HBO series. “Being his friend was a gift. Eric’s family is in our thoughts. May his memory be a blessing.”

Sydney Sweeney

Sydney Sweeney posted a video of Eric Dane on her Instagram Stories, captioning the clip, “Forever will love you ❤️.”

Barbie Ferreira

Barbie Ferreira shared a clip of Eric Dane adorned with a white heart emoji on her Instagram Story.

Nika King

Nika King, who portrays Leslie Bennett, shared her tribute via Instagram.

“I remember one of our last table reads for @euphoria — the level of commitment you brought to that room was undeniable. You were completely immersed,” recalled King. “Your artistry challenged everyone else to dig deeper. Even those not directly sharing scenes with you felt the weight of your commitment to getting the story right. There’s something truly special about being in an ensemble where even those not directly involved shape the energy of the collective narrative. That was the impact you had.”

She added, “I wish I had the chance to share a scene with you. Still, I’m thankful we shared this world and this wild journey. You will be deeply missed. Sending prayers to your family and all who loved you.”