A wave of grief washed over viewers of the long-running medical drama as a poignant tribute to Eric Dane unfolded on screen. The episode, titled "(If You Want It) Do It Yourself," concluded with a deeply moving one-minute montage honoring the actor who brought the charismatic Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloane to life for seven seasons.
Dane’s passing last week, at the age of 53, came less than a year after he bravely shared his diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS. The news resonated throughout Hollywood, prompting heartfelt condolences from colleagues like Patrick Dempsey, Kim Raver, and the show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes.
The tribute wasn’t simply a collection of clips; it was a carefully curated journey through McSteamy’s most iconic moments. Scenes showcasing his captivating presence and, notably, his compelling relationship with Lexie Grey, filled the screen, evoking a powerful sense of nostalgia and loss.
Adding to the emotional weight, the montage was set to a hauntingly beautiful cover of “Chasing Cars” by Tommee Profitt & Fleuries. This song has long been associated with the show’s most heart-wrenching scenes, making it a particularly fitting accompaniment to this final farewell.
The video culminated with a simple, yet profoundly impactful line delivered by Dane’s character: “Don’t waste one single minute.” It served as a stark reminder of life’s fragility and a powerful echo of the actor’s own battle with a devastating disease.
Fans immediately took to social media, expressing their heartbreak and sharing cherished memories of both the character and the actor. Many described being moved to tears by the unexpected and deeply respectful tribute.
One fan wrote, “I can’t take it, this song, all these unforgettable moments, our McSteamy, you will be forever missed Eric.” Others echoed the sentiment, remembering McSteamy and Lexie’s chemistry and praising Dane’s inspiring advocacy work after his diagnosis.
ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, relentlessly attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Early symptoms can include muscle twitching, weakness, and difficulty with speech and swallowing. Ultimately, it robs individuals of their ability to move, speak, eat, and even breathe.
Currently, there is no cure for this devastating illness. The disease’s rapid progression was tragically evident in the case of Eric Dane, who had been hoping to collaborate with Patrick Dempsey on a new project just weeks before his death.
Dempsey shared that he and Dane were actively trying to work together, but the disease advanced too quickly. He described Dane as a “remarkable actor and a remarkable man,” expressing deep sorrow and gratitude for the legacy he left behind.
Dane’s final role was poignantly fitting: portraying an ALS patient in NBC’s “Brilliant Minds.” He also completed filming for a posthumous appearance in the upcoming season of “Euphoria,” offering audiences one last glimpse of his talent. His final interview, released on a streaming platform at his request, served as a powerful testament to his courage and a call for greater awareness of ALS.
