Former "Grey's Anatomy" star Eric Dane has opened up about his tumultuous departure from the medical drama, revealing that his addiction issues spiraled out of control during his time on the show. Dane, who portrayed the beloved plastic surgeon Dr. Mark "McSteamy" Sloan, joined the series in season two and became a series regular in season three. However, his struggles with addiction eventually led to his departure in 2012.
Eric Dane has shed light on the behind-the-scenes drama that contributed to his dramatic exit from "Grey's Anatomy" in 2012. In a candid interview with the "Armchair Expert" podcast, the actor revealed that his addiction to painkillers escalated during his stint on the hit ABC show.
Dane, who joined "Grey's Anatomy" after a sizzling towel scene in season two, became a series regular in season three. However, he admitted that the pressures of playing a revered character and the whirlwind of fame took a toll on his well-being.
Eric Dane Breaks Silence on Chaotic 'Grey's Anatomy' Exit: "I was f---ed up longer than I was sober
"I think the net-net is I didn't really handle it very well," Dane said. "Because if you take the whole eight years on ‘Grey’s Anatomy,' I was f---ed up longer than I was sober. And that's when things started going sideways for me."
Dane's addiction initially spiraled out of control while trying to manage the expectations of playing such a highly coveted character on television.
Eric Dane Breaks Silence on Chaotic 'Grey's Anatomy' Exit: "I was f---ed up longer than I was sober
"It was overwhelming, and I think I just wanted to pretend that it wasn't and that I was comfortable with it. Act like you've been there, but you haven't been there," he explained. "It's very hard to sort of digest," he said of the fame.
Being labeled one of Hollywood's hottest TV stars further contributed to Dane's self-doubt and feelings of fraudulence.
Eric Dane Breaks Silence on Chaotic 'Grey's Anatomy' Exit: "I was f---ed up longer than I was sober
"That was weird for me because I never saw myself as that, it was a real source of self-doubt," he said.
Dane's struggles with addiction and the pressure of fame ultimately led to his departure from "Grey's Anatomy." However, he credits his sobriety for helping him confront his demons and rebuild his life.
Eric Dane Breaks Silence on Chaotic 'Grey's Anatomy' Exit: "I was f---ed up longer than I was sober
"I wouldn't recommend it, but it was my experience," Dane said. "And it all came to a head, it all got so crazy that I finally had to make the choice between drink or drugs and everything else. And I finally did it when I had to."
Dane's departure from "Grey's Anatomy" paved the way for his character's tragic death in the season nine finale. However, his legacy continues as one of the most beloved characters in the show's history.
Eric Dane Breaks Silence on Chaotic 'Grey's Anatomy' Exit: "I was f---ed up longer than I was sober
