Eric Dane best known for playing Captain Tom Chandler in The Last Ship has tragically passed away at the age of 53.He died recently following his battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. He publicly announced his ALS diagnosis last year in April and spent his final months spreading awareness about it.Dane was loved by his fans for his portrayal of a Navy captain in The Last Ship. As a steadfast leader of the USS Nathan James he guided his crew through a post-apocalyptic pandemic crisis, winning the heart of viewers. His sudden demise prompted heartfelt tributes from fans.A user wrote on X:“This makes me sad. I know that most people will remember him as McSteamy from Gray’s Anatomy, but to me, he’ll always be Captain Chandler. If you haven’t watched TNT’s The Last Ship, you’re missing a great show! RIP, Eric Dane.” Continue to read for more details.The Last Ship fans commemorate the death of Eric DaneThe Last Ship fans are commemorating Eric Dane’s passing with emotional tributes on social media, particularly X. Many of the users reflected on his famous role as they shared clips from the series and praised his acting skills. Some admitted that Dane's presence made the show comforting to watch.A user posted on X“Watching Eric Dane as Captain Tom Chandler on The Last Ship was something special. He didn’t just play a leader, he made leadership feel human: strong, broken, loyal, and brave all at once.”Another chimed in“Rest in Peace Captain Tom Chandler. The Last Ship has been a comfort show of mine for the last 5 years and Eric Dane quickly became one of my favourite actors. Mc Steamy on Gray’s Anatomy, and many other great characters. Big Loss. #EricDane.”Actor Eric Dane Has ALS - Source: GettyA user added:“The Last Ship was the only movie through which I get to know Eric Dane and it's impact in my leadership skills is so massive. RIP Captain Tom Chandler.”Someone else wrote:"Wow, and on top of that, he truly made watching The Last Ship so enjoyable. An exceptional actor who infused each scene with a lot of enthusiasm and calmness, no matter how brave. May he rest in peace.”A fan posted:"Legend himself. Hardly smile character. I can't believe he's gone. Condolences to his family what a man he was..I love your character and you made me watch the last ship over and over again.”Travis Van Winkle Dane’s co-star from The Last Ship, posted an Instagram story for his friend. The post featured him along with the actor along with a heartfelt caption where he mentioned learning "so much from Eric."He remembered him as a great man. He noted that it was sad to see him leave this way and sent his condolences to his family. While concluding his post he thanked him for sharing memories with him refering to their time on the set.Dane was married to Rebecca Gayheart with whom he shared two children, Billie and Georgia. His family shared a statement that read:“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS.”Dane and Gayheart tied the knot in 2004 after dating in the early 2000s. But in 2018 they separated after 14 years together with the actress filing for divorce citing irreconcilable differences. Despite the split they never finalized their divorce.In his final interview in December 2025, Dane, who was also known for starring in Euphoria and Grey's Anatomy vowed to combat ALS while participating in a virtual panel. It was reportedly hosted by I Am ALS and Synapticure for Giving Tuesday.He openly discussed the "horrible" realities of living with ALS, describing it as rocky with hurdles and bureaucracy. He emphasized raising awareness and stated he aimed to ensure people understand ALS.