Eric Dane opens up about his departure from Grey’s Anatomy due to personal struggles

Actor Eric Dane candidly discusses the reasons behind his exit from the popular show Grey’s Anatomy.

Eric Dane, known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the hit ABC series, reflected on his six-season stint from 2006 to 2012.

During an episode of Dax Shepard’s “Armchair Expert” podcast, Dane acknowledged, “I didn’t leave so much as I think I was let go.”

It was revealed by Shepard that Dane was battling drug and alcohol addiction at the time of his departure, to which Dane admitted, “I was struggling. They didn’t let me go because of that, although it definitely didn’t help.”

Discussing the financial aspect, Dane mentioned, “I was starting to become very expensive for the network, as most long-standing actors on the show do, and the network was aware that the show’s success wasn’t solely based on the cast.”

Dane shared his admiration for Shonda Rhimes, the show’s creator, highlighting her unwavering support throughout the difficult period, stating, “She protected us fiercely.”

Reflecting on his departure, Dane explained, “It wasn’t a formal firing, but rather a decision that I wouldn’t be returning.”

Recalling his time on Grey’s Anatomy, Dane admitted, “Throughout the eight years on the show, I struggled more than I was stable, and that was when things took a turn for the worse.”