His family confirmed his passing Thursday afternoon, sharing:
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday following a courageous battle with ALS.
Throughout his journey, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.”
A Career and Legacy Beyond the Screen
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane worked steadily through the 1990s before Grey’s Anatomy catapulted him to fame in 2006. What began as a guest role quickly became one of television’s most beloved characters.
Beyond Grey’s Anatomy, Dane starred in films including X-Men: The Last Stand, Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day, Burlesque, and Bad Boys: Ride or Die. Later roles showed his range while he also openly discussed his ALS journey, shining a light on the disease that affected millions.
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Reflecting on his fight, Dane once said:
“I make sure that people are aware of what ALS is and what it’s about, and more importantly, what we can do to combat it… it’s rocky, littered with hurdles and bureaucracy, but we have to find solutions.”
Even as ALS took more from him, his spirit remained unshaken — a message that has touched fans across the globe. One admirer summed it up:
“My heart is breaking. His final post was about fighting for others. He had so much strength.”
Eric Dane is survived by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and daughters Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14. His legacy — both on-screen and off — will be remembered for years to come.
Honor Eric Dane’s memory by sharing his story and raising awareness for ALS. His courage reminds us all to fight for others, even in the toughest battles.