Rebecca Gayheart Thanks Fans After Eric Dane’s ALS Death

LOS ANGELES (Azat TV) – Actress Rebecca Gayheart has publicly expressed her overwhelming gratitude for the ‘outpouring of love and support’ she and her family have received following the death of her estranged husband, actor Eric Dane. Dane, known for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the age of 53, after a courageous 10-month battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

On Sunday, February 22, Gayheart, 54, took to her Instagram Stories to share her sentiments, writing, ‘There aren’t words to express our gratitude. You are truly holding us up during this difficult time.’ Her message accompanied a photo of a candlelit memorial honoring the late actor. Hours earlier, she had shared a collection of candid throwback photos of Dane with their two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13, alongside numerous reposted tributes from friends and loved ones, according to People.

Eric Dane’s Battle with ALS and Family’s Statement

Eric Dane publicly announced his ALS diagnosis 10 months before his death. In a statement released to People, his family confirmed his passing, noting 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 family highlighted Dane’s dedication to advocacy during his illness, stating, ‘Throughout his journey with ALS, 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.” They also conveyed Dane’s appreciation for his fans and requested privacy during their grieving process.

Rebecca Gayheart’s Role as Caregiver and Co-Parent

Despite separating in 2018 after marrying in 2004, Rebecca Gayheart remained a central figure in Eric Dane’s life, particularly during his illness. She took on a significant role as his primary caregiver, managing his extensive medical care which she described as being divided into 21 shifts in an essay for The Cut published in December 2025. Gayheart revealed that she often covered shifts when others could not, emphasizing her commitment to his well-being.

The couple maintained a friendly co-parenting relationship for their daughters, who live with Gayheart full-time. During a November appearance on the ‘Broad Ideas’ podcast, Gayheart shared how she encouraged her daughters to ‘show up for people no matter what’ as their father’s ALS progressed. ‘He is our family. He is your father,’ she recalled telling them, striving to navigate the difficult period with ‘dignity and some grace.’ She further clarified in her The Cut essay that their bond, while no longer romantic, was a profound ‘familial love.’

Tributes from Co-Stars and Industry Friends

News of Dane’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from his former colleagues. Patrick Dempsey, who starred alongside Dane in Grey’s Anatomy, spoke on ‘The Chris Evans Breakfast Show’ about their ‘wonderful mutual respect.’ Kate Walsh, another Grey’s Anatomy alum, shared her grief on Instagram, expressing that she was ‘at a loss for words’ and reminiscing about Dane’s ‘sensitivity and vulnerability.’ These tributes underscore the impact Dane had on those he worked with throughout his career.

Rebecca Gayheart’s public expression of gratitude highlights the complex dynamics of modern family relationships, demonstrating how love and commitment can transcend traditional marital structures, especially in times of profound illness and loss. Her dedication to co-parenting and caregiving, even after separation, offers a poignant example of familial resilience and support.