Eric Dane, known for his roles as a surgeon on “Grey’s Anatomy” and the complex character Cal Jacobs in “Euphoria,” passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The news sent ripples through the entertainment industry and prompted an outpouring of support for his family.
Thank You for Your Support and Love
His wife, Rebecca Gayheart, has now broken her silence, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support received from fans and the wider community. “I’m blown away by the outpouring of love and support from our community,” she shared on Instagram, according to People.
“You’ll see no words to express our gratitude,” she added, alongside a photo of a candlelit memorial honoring the late actor. “You are truly giving us strength during this demanding time.” The statement comes after the family confirmed Dane’s death, highlighting his courageous fight against the debilitating disease.
- Rebecca Gayheart thanked supporters following the death of Eric Dane.
- Actor Eric Dane died from ALS at the age of 53.
- During his illness, he advocated for ALS research and awareness.
- ALS is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease.
- The family is requesting privacy as they grieve.
Prior to her statement, Gayheart shared a series of throwback photos featuring Dane and their two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14, from birthdays and family vacations. She also reposted tributes from friends and loved ones, offering a heartfelt tribute to the actor she steadfastly supported throughout his challenging battle with ALS.
A Shocking Announcement
Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis just ten months before his death. His family announced the passing on February 19, 2026, in a statement provided to media outlets:
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed away on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS… 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 continued, noting that “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. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”
The announcement came as a shock to many, including the actor himself, who had been actively involved in supporting research into the disease and potential treatments. In the fall of 2025, Dane lobbied members of Congress for increased federal funding for research into degenerative diseases and the reauthorization of the Accelerating Access for Critical Therapies for ALS Act, which provides grant programs for ALS research.
ALS Can Progress Rapidly in Some Cases
Eric Dane’s struggle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, brought attention to the rare and devastating condition. ALS is a serious, multisystem, and multifactorial neurodegenerative disease that progressively attacks various systems of the human body. The underlying mechanism of ALS involves damage to peripheral and central motor neurons, leading to the gradual degeneration of nerve fibers supplying muscles.
This damage ultimately leads to paralysis of motor neurons, progressive damage or atrophy of muscles, and paresis of various parts of the body. Patients with ALS lose the ability to perform daily activities as the range of mobility decreases. Motor deficits and loss of motor function affect muscle structures throughout the body—not only the limbs but also systems like breathing and digestion.
While the average survival rate for ALS patients is typically 3–5 years, some may live for 10 years or more, but in some cases, the disease progresses extremely rapidly. This was the case for the popular television actor.
“ALS progresses at different rates in different people. Genetics play a big role. Some mutations can accelerate the progression of the disease. The location where symptoms begin to manifest is also crucial; if speech or swallowing functions are affected, progression is usually faster,” explained Dr. Bharath Kumar Surisetti, a consultant neurologist at Yashoda Hospitals, to NDTV.
“Age, nutrition, and overall health also influence the rate of progression. Environmental factors can also contribute, but the course of the disease remains unpredictable. Each patient’s journey is unique and influenced by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors.”
Standing by His Side in Recent Months
Eric Dane and Rebecca Gayheart first met in 2003 and married in Las Vegas less than a year later. They welcomed daughters Billie and Georgia in 2010 and 2011, respectively. The couple separated in 2018, with Gayheart filing for divorce citing irreconcilable differences, but remained a key support system for her husband throughout his battle with ALS. She ultimately dismissed the divorce filing in March 2025, just weeks before Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis.
During a November appearance on the “Broad Ideas” podcast, Gayheart described the complexities of their relationship during his illness. Despite being separated for eight years, she emphasized the importance of showing their daughters “that we show up for people no matter what.”
“He is our family. He is your father… We’re standing by them and trying to do it with some dignity and grace and just get through it.” Gayheart also revealed that their daughters had been living with her “100%” since her separation from Dane.
“We’ve been separated for eight years. The kids live with me 100%…,” she said, adding that she is trying to remain optimistic. “I’m trying to learn from it and be a good example for them of how to get through something really hard… I don’t know if I’m doing it right or wrong or the right way, I’m just trying to be there for them. Time will tell.”
