Eric Dane, the beloved television actor best known for his role in “Grey’s Anatomy,” passed away on February 19, 2026, after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Following his death, his widow, Rebecca Gayheart, was seen publicly for the first time the next day, stepping out of their Los Angeles home.
On February 20, Gayheart was photographed wearing a beige trench coat, glasses, and an updo as she left the residence. Although she did not issue a public statement, her actions conveyed a poignant tribute to Dane. In the days that followed, she took to Instagram, sharing a series of heartfelt memories that celebrate their life together and their two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14.
Rebecca Gayheart chose to honor Dane through photographs rather than words. Her Instagram Stories feature various moments from their family life, allowing the images to express the depth of their relationship. One particularly touching photograph shows the family gathered around birthday cakes, with Georgia seated on Rebecca’s lap and Billie standing beside them. This snapshot captures a joyful celebration now etched in memory.
In another cherished memory, a younger Billie kisses her father on the cheek while they relax on a bed, a simple yet precious moment. Other images depict Dane playing with his daughters in the snow, embodying the carefree joy of family life. One photo shows the four of them smiling together at an event, dressed casually, highlighting the bond they shared.
In addition to these reflections, a GoFundMe campaign was established to support Gayheart and their daughters. The fundraiser, which has raised approximately $277,962 towards its $500,000 goal, emphasizes the impact Dane had on his family. The page states, “It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Eric Dane after a hard-fought battle with ALS, leaving behind his devoted wife, Rebecca, and his two teenage daughters.”
Dane was not only an accomplished actor but also a passionate advocate for the ALS community. Following his diagnosis, he utilized his platform to raise awareness and support for fellow patients. As his illness progressed rapidly, friends rallied to create the GoFundMe campaign to assist his family during this challenging time.
While Rebecca expressed her love for Dane through shared memories, Janell Shirtcliff, Dane’s girlfriend and a director, also paid tribute to him on social media. Like Gayheart, she refrained from issuing a formal statement but shared moments from their time together, capturing candid instances that showcase the intimacy of their relationship.
The couple’s complex history dates back to their meeting in 2003. They married several years later and welcomed two daughters. Their relationship experienced ups and downs, including a separation in September 2017 and a subsequent divorce filing in February 2018, which was never finalized. Despite their separation, they remained dedicated co-parents and maintained a close bond.
In a 2025 interview, Gayheart reflected on their relationship, stating, “We are best of friends. We are really close. We are great co-parents.” This sentiment was echoed by Dane, who acknowledged Gayheart as his biggest support during his illness.
As Dane’s health deteriorated, he leaned heavily on Gayheart. In December 2025, she described their relationship as one filled with familial love, regardless of the romantic aspect. “Our love may not be romantic, but it’s a familial love,” she explained.
The legacy of Eric Dane extends beyond his on-screen roles. His commitment to his family and his advocacy for ALS awareness continue to resonate, as seen through the outpouring of love from friends and fans alike. The memories shared by both Gayheart and Shirtcliff serve as powerful reminders of the man they cherished and the impact he had on their lives.
