Eric Dane as Cal Jacobs in 'Euphoria'.
Image: X/@welplookathim
Eric Dane was all set to make a memorable return to "Euphoria" season 3 before fans were hit with the heartbreaking news of his death at 53.
The actor had already filmed his scenes as Cal Jacobs, the complicated, messy, yet somehow magnetic father of Jacob Elordi’s Nate Jacobs.
If you’ve watched the show, you know Cal is wealthy, charming, and hiding deep secrets about his past and who he really is.
Reports suggest that season 3 was going to give Cal a bit of redemption.
After the chaos he left behind in season 2, legal troubles, messy family drama, and, let’s be real, a lot of secrets coming to light, it looked like viewers were finally going to see him confront some of his demons.
Dane had publicly said he felt “fortunate” to keep working despite his ALS diagnosis in April 2025, even asking fans to “give my family and I privacy during this time.”
You can’t help but respect someone so committed to their craft while battling something so serious.
Filming for season 3 wrapped later that year, and fans can expect to see Cal Jacobs back on screen, likely bringing some closure to one of the show’s most controversial characters.
While HBO has kept the specifics of his storyline under wraps, knowing that Dane gave this final performance everything he had makes it all the more poignant.
Tragically, Dane didn’t get to see the final product. On February 19, he passed away from complications related to ALS, surrounded by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughters, Billie and Georgia.
During his battle, he also became an advocate for ALS awareness, showing that even while facing his toughest fight, he was thinking of others.
Fans were saddened by the news and shared that the latest season of "Euphoria" might be the saddest yet, especially knowing it features Dane’s final performance.
@HonestHalo commented: "From the halls of Grey Sloan to the intensity of 'Euphoria', Eric Dane didn't just play iconic characters il lived a life of immense courage. To film 'Euphoria' season 3 while privately battling ALS shows exactly the kind of fighter he was. Dr McSteamy forever. Rest in peace, Legend."
@_2307_wrote: "Omg he filmed part of euphoria season 3 that's going to hurt."
@MizzzAlia also wrote: "Such an iconic scene . There will only ever be one McSteamy. 53 years old is too young to die. I’m glad they got to finished season 3 of Euphoria before his passing. RIP Eric Dane."