Hollywood Mourns as Eric Dane Passes Away at 53 After ALS Battle
The entertainment world has been profoundly shaken by the passing of beloved actor Eric Dane. Known for his memorable roles as Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running medical drama 'Grey's Anatomy' and as Cal Jacobs in the hit series 'Euphoria', Dane's death has left fans and colleagues grieving worldwide. The actor succumbed to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53, having publicly disclosed his diagnosis less than a year prior.
Rebecca Gayheart's Heartfelt First Statement
Now, for the first time since losing her former husband, actress Rebecca Gayheart has broken her silence with a raw and emotional message. In her initial public remarks, Gayheart expressed overwhelming gratitude for the support system that has surrounded her family during this devastating period. She posted a poignant tribute on Instagram on February 22, accompanied by cherished photographs of her and Dane.
"I am so blown away by the outpouring of love and support from our community. There aren't words to express our gratitude," Gayheart wrote. The couple shares two daughters: Billie, aged 15, and Georgia, aged 14. She emphasized, "You are truly holding us up during this difficult time." Her post included personal memories and a symbolic candle lit in honor of Dane's life, reflecting a quiet reverence for the man she once married.
Gayheart spoke candidly about the arduous journey they faced, detailing the immense challenges posed by ALS, the fluctuations of family dynamics, and the enduring love that sustained them. Her words carried a palpable sadness, yet were infused with deep thankfulness for the family they built together and the compassionate assistance they received from friends and fans alike.
Understanding Rebecca Gayheart's Background
Rebecca Gayheart has been a recognizable figure in Hollywood since the 1990s, with a career spanning acting and modeling. Audiences may recall her performances in films such as 'Jawbreaker' and 'Urban Legend', along with guest appearances on television series like 'Beverly Hills, 90210'. Her relationship with Eric Dane positioned them as one of Hollywood's notable couples, earning public admiration and support throughout their time together.
A Complex and Enduring Partnership
Rebecca Gayheart and Eric Dane first connected in the early 2000s, marrying in 2004 and welcoming two daughters. Despite separating in 2018 after 14 years of marriage, the couple never finalized a divorce. In a significant turn of events, when Dane fell ill in March 2025, Gayheart requested the dismissal of divorce proceedings, demonstrating a powerful familial reunion in the face of adversity.
In a recent essay for 'The Cut', as reported by E! News, Gayheart reflected on their relationship with striking honesty. "I care about him deeply. We had a really lovely marriage for a long time. We were married for 15 years, and we created two beautiful girls. But also, lots of things went crazy in our relationship, and it wasn't good," she disclosed.
She elaborated further, stating, "We separated, but we never got a divorce. We were about to and then didn't. We haven't lived in the same home for eight years; he's dated other people, I've dated someone." Even after their split, Gayheart and Dane maintained a close bond, functioning as co-parents, friends, and partners in a relationship that transcended conventional labels. Throughout Dane's illness, Gayheart served as his primary caregiver, all while ensuring their daughters felt secure and loved during this challenging chapter.
The loss of Eric Dane marks a significant moment in Hollywood, with his legacy enduring through his impactful performances and the resilient family he leaves behind. Rebecca Gayheart's openness provides a touching glimpse into their shared history, highlighting the complexities of love, loss, and unwavering support in times of profound sorrow.
