Grey's Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes has spoken out after actor Eric Dane died at 53. In a statement on February 19 Rhimes called Dane a "beloved" part of the Shondaland and Grey's Anatomy families. She said his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan "left an indelible mark" on the series and audiences worldwide. News broke on February 19 that Dane died after a battle with ALS, a nervous system disease with no cure. Dane's death came 20 years after he made his debut on ABC's Grey's Anatomy.
