Days after the death of actor Eric Dane at age 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a former background performer on *Grey's Anatomy* has drawn widespread attention with explosive online accusations that Dane bullied her on set and that she contributed to his departure from the long-running ABC medical drama.

Eric Dane
Eric Dane

Laura Ann Tull, who says she worked as an extra on the show for several years starting in 2005, posted a series of messages on Threads shortly after news of Dane's passing on February 19, 2026. In response to a Variety post announcing his death, Tull wrote bluntly, "He was a bully an a hole," sparking immediate backlash from fans and users who questioned the timing and tone of her comments.

Tull doubled down in follow-up posts, alleging that Dane mocked her, spoke negatively about her behind her back and caused lasting professional and personal harm. "He was a coward who abused me. Bullied me. Made fun of me," she wrote in one reply. In another, she expressed regret that Dane never apologized: "He just died. I only wish he'd apologized & admitted what he did."

The most provocative claim came when Tull asserted responsibility for Dane's exit from *Grey's Anatomy* in 2012. "I am why he was fired from Grey's," she stated, claiming she contacted the office of series creator and executive producer Shonda Rhimes two weeks before the official announcement of his departure. "I called Rhimes' assistant two weeks before they announced his termination," Tull wrote. "Rhimes I doubt will ever admit that."

No evidence has surfaced to corroborate Tull's allegations, and representatives for Rhimes, ABC or Disney have not commented publicly on the claims. Dane's 2012 exit from *Grey's Anatomy* — where he played charismatic plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed "McSteamy" — was officially attributed to creative decisions as his character was written out following a plane crash storyline. He went on to star in TNT's *The Last Ship* and later appeared in HBO's *Euphoria* as Cal Jacobs.

Dane's family announced his death in a statement confirming he passed Thursday afternoon, February 19, surrounded by loved ones after a courageous fight with ALS, diagnosed publicly in April 2025. "He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world," the statement read. "Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research."

The actor's passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from co-stars, including Patrick Dempsey, Ellen Pompeo and Sandra Oh, who remembered his talent, humor and kindness. Dane's advocacy for ALS awareness in his final months earned praise from organizations like the ALS Association.

Tull's posts quickly went viral, with screenshots circulating on X, Reddit and other platforms. Many users condemned the timing, calling it insensitive during a period of mourning. One commenter wrote, "The body isn't cold and here she is trying to claim credit for something that advanced his career." Others questioned her narrative, noting Dane's departure led to new opportunities rather than professional downfall.

In earlier writings, including a Medium post from 2018, Tull described being labeled "weird" by industry figures, including a reference to Dane via a SAG-AFTRA representative. She has claimed the label contributed to her being pushed out of acting work. Tull also mentioned considering legal action over the alleged mistreatment but provided no further details.

The controversy highlights tensions around speaking ill of the deceased, especially when allegations surface without corroboration. Mental health advocates and fans of Dane urged focus on his legacy and family grief rather than unverified claims.

As of February 24, Tull's Threads account remains active, with the posts garnering thousands of views and replies ranging from support to criticism. No lawsuits or formal complaints related to the allegations have been reported.

Dane's career spanned decades, from early roles in *The Basket* to high-profile parts in *Burlesque*, *Valentine's Day* and *Euphoria*. His portrayal of complex characters earned him a loyal following, and his openness about ALS inspired many facing similar diagnoses.

The family has requested privacy as they grieve, with no public memorial details announced. Tributes continue online, celebrating Dane's contributions to television and his resilience in his final year.