Eric Dane
Dane's final role on Brilliant Minds earned him a standing ovation; the cast clapped for 10 minutes after his scene wrapped. PHOTOS: X

Eric Dane, beloved for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan, aka McSteamy, on Grey's Anatomy, passed away at age 53 on February 19. His death came exactly 20 years after his first appearance on the hit medical drama, and less than a year after publicly revealing his battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His sudden departure leaves a void in the hearts of fans and fellow actors alike.

Dane first graced Grey's Anatomy in the latter half of season 2 in 2006.

His character, a charismatic plastic surgeon with a devil-may-care attitude who *ahem* slept with almost everybody, immediately captivated viewers. Fans swooned over his rugged good looks and confident swagger.

Recognising his star power, the producers promoted him to series regular the following season. His portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan lasted until 2012, when his character met a tragic end in the season 9 premiere.

Dane's tenure on the show turned him into a pop culture icon. His nickname, 'McSteamy,' still resonates decades later.

Now, as fans pay tribute to Dane, we celebrate his unforgettable moments on the show. From comic relief to heartfelt confessions, here are the top highlights of Dane's legendary portrayal of Sloan.

Top 10 Memorable Moments of Eric Dane as McSteamy

10. McSteamy as a dad, co-parenting Sofia with Callie Torres, Arizona

Sloan's notable scene involved Callie Torres (Sara Ramirez), with whom McSteamy shared a clandestine encounter. Callie asked for sorbet and that night marked a turning point: it was when Sofia, Mark's daughter with Callie, was conceived.

In the eighth season's episode 'What Is It About Men,' Sloan's softer side shines through. He takes on the role of a new dad, caring for Sofia, his daughter with Callie and Arizona (played by Jessica Capshaw) as Mark navigates the chaos of fatherhood!

9. When the McBrothers fight (and eventually forgive each other)

His friendship with Derek Shepherd, played by Patrick Dempsey, stood out. Despite their differences and fiery exchanges, their bond endured. The season 4 opener showcased this when McSteamy told Derek, 'I didn't come to Seattle for Addison, I came here for you. I came to get you back.' Moments later, he sheepishly added, 'I know. I want to take it back, but I already said it.' Fans loved the genuine warmth beneath his tough exterior.

8. Everybody is talking about the McSteamy Shower scene

In Season 3's 'I Am a Tree,' Mark emerges from a hotel room shower, barely covering himself with a towel. Just as Derek apologises to Addison about their failed marriage, Sloan came out with a towel on after a steamy bath and said, 'Oh, this is awkward.' Derek took the champagne glass from Addison, drank it all up, and said, 'I feel much better now.'

7. The debut of McSteamy: A punch and a nickname

Mark Sloan's introduction in Season 2's 'Yesterday' is nothing short of iconic. He immediately flirts with Meredith Grey but gets punched out by McDreamy. After establishing that he and Meredith are 'the dirty mistresses,' Sloan begins suturing his own face, setting the tone for his rebellious, witty persona. Meredith called him 'McSteamy,' cementing his place in Grey's Anatomy history.

6. Loved Lexie...even if she's with Alex

Sloan's heroism is front and centre in the Season 6 finale, 'Sanctuary' and 'Death and All His Friends.' He defies danger to shield Lexie Grey (Chyler Leigh) from a gunman, risking his life to protect her. Even as Lexie confesses her love for Alex (Justin Chambers), Sloan continues to perform life-saving measures.

5. Remember his manhood?

In Season 5's 'Stairway to Heaven,' Sloan's ego takes a hit, literally. During a passionate moment with Lexie in an on-call room, he suffers a penile fracture. The injury is awkward and painfully *uugh*, instantly becoming a fan-favourite moment.

4. The elevator scene

We hope this is in everyone's top 5, but when McSteamy stepped out of an elevator in season 4, he found McDreamy stuck with his ex-wife, current girlfriend, and ex Meredith. Without missing a beat, he quipped, 'I bet you wish you'd taken the stairs right about now.' It's a line that fans still quote, cheeky, smug, and utterly priceless.

3. That unexpected cameo

One of the most touching moments occurs in Season 17's 'Breathe,' where Meredith lies unconscious from COVID. She dreams of Lexie and Mark on a beautiful beach, telling her they're together in the afterlife.

2. We remember, Mark

In Season 9's 'Remember the Time,' Mark's spirit shines even after his death. He gave a heartfelt piece of advice: 'If you love someone, you tell 'em. Even if you're scared that it's not the right thing. Even if you're scared that it'll cause problems. Even if you're scared that it will burn your life to the ground, you say it, and you say it loud. And then you go from there.'

1. Endgame

They were supposed to be the endgame. Few moments in Grey's Anatomy are as heartbreaking as Mark's farewell to Lexie. His tearful, heartfelt 'I love you' repeated endlessly showcased a love that was fierce and genuine.

Fans hold onto these moments, knowing that Mark Sloan's spirit lives on in every laugh, every tear, and every brave act. His best moments aren't just scenes on a screen, they're memories etched in the hearts of Grey's Anatomy fans worldwide.

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