Since its debut in June 2019, HBO’s Euphoria has gripped audiences with its raw, unflinching storytelling, and in it, Eric Dane, who played the role of Cal Jacobs, left a deep mark on the series and quiet power on screen that earned him respect across Hollywood. Yet, in a heartbreaking turn, the actor who brought this character to life has left us. Eric Dane passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53, battling ALS.

The heartbreaking news was confirmed by his family, who revealed that Dane spent his final days surrounded by loved ones. While Hollywood is left mourning the loss of a talent whose presence commanded the screen, media outlets have flooded with posts honoring Dane along with the creator of Euphoria.

The news of Eric Dane's passing sent shockwaves through the Euphoria family, as this is the second heartbreaking loss the series has endured after Conor Angus Cloud Hickey, known professionally as Angus Cloud, passed away in July 2023 at just 25. The weight of losing two beloved cast members has left a profound mark on the team, who took social media to honor Eric Dane one last time.

  Joining the outpouring of grief, Euphoria creator Sam Levinson also paid tribute to their beloved cast member, sharing blessings to Eric Dane's family while talking to Variety.  

“I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric. Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift. Eric’s family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing,” Levinson said.

Apart from Sam Levinson sharing a statement with Variety, HBO also came forward to pay tribute to the remarkable actor who had magnificently graced the screen several times. 

While the actor earned quite the reviews throughout season 1 and 2 of Euphoria, he also filmed Euphoria Season 3 before his health took a turn for the worst.

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As per multiple reports, the California native had been quietly battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a diagnosis he revealed publicly in April 2025, not long before his passing. Fans have since taken to social media, sharing heartfelt messages and hoping to witness his final moments on screen in Euphoria’s upcoming season.

Known for his role as ‘McSteamy’ on Grey’s Anatomy Eric Dane later portrayed the complex father of Jacob Elordi’s character on Euphoria. Over the years, he made appearances in series such as Gideon’s Crossing, Charmed, and The Last Ship, as well as films including Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, and X-Men: The Last Stand.

Fans are left wondering if they will get to see Eric Dane’s Cal Jacobs one final time on screen, in Euphoria Season 3. With no official announcement from HBO about a recast, reports confirm that Dane’s Season 3 scenes will remain intact. Despite his battle with ALS, he completed filming, and Euphoria Season 3, premiering April 12, 2026 on HBO and streaming on Max.

Eric Dane brought a gravity that could not be rehearsed and a vulnerability that could not be faked. As evident by the tributes of the people he graced with his magic, his absence will be felt not only in the unfinished spaces he leaves behind, but in the silences where his work once quietly held its ground.

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What is your favorite Eric Dane memory that you cherish the most? Let us know in the comments.