Eric Dane’s public revelation of his ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) diagnosis in April 2025 came shortly after a significant personal decision by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart. Just weeks before the announcement, Gayheart had filed to dismiss their divorce, a move that underscored the deep familial bonds that persisted despite their separation. The couple, who had been apart for seven years, chose not to finalize their split, allowing Gayheart to remain legally married to the late actor.
The news of Dane’s passing on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53, marked the end of a courageous ten-month battle with the degenerative disease. The “Grey’s Anatomy” star leaves behind a legacy that includes not only his memorable roles but also his dedication to his family, particularly his daughters, Billie and Georgia.
Rebecca Gayheart’s Decision to Withdraw Divorce
Gayheart initially filed for divorce in February 2018, citing irreconcilable differences after 13 years of marriage. Despite the separation, the couple maintained an amicable co-parenting relationship. The divorce proceedings, however, lingered in legal limbo for seven years, even as they received warnings from the court.
On March 6, 2025, Gayheart formally requested to dismiss the divorce petition without prejudice, a decision she later explained on the Board Ideas podcast. “We show up for people no matter what. He is our family. He is your father,” she said, referring to her daughters. This sentiment highlighted her commitment to maintaining a united family front during Dane’s illness.
A Shift from Romance to Familial Love
The couple’s relationship had evolved from romance to a more familial love long before Dane’s diagnosis. Married in October 2004 in Las Vegas, their early romance was straightforward, as Dane recounted in a 2008 interview with Flaunt magazine. Despite their separation, both Dane and Gayheart continued to be actively involved in each other’s lives.
In a December 2025 essay for The Cut, Gayheart clarified that their reconciliation did not signify a rekindled romance. “Our love may not be romantic, but it’s a familial love,” she wrote, emphasizing the deep bond that remained between them.
Facing ALS: A Public Battle
Despite the personal challenges, Dane faced his ALS diagnosis publicly, becoming an advocate for research and awareness. In June 2025, he shared on Good Morning America that he had already lost function in his right arm, expressing fears about the disease’s progression. “I’m angry,” he admitted, reflecting on the possibility of leaving his daughters at a young age.
“This disease takes something from me every day. But I won’t let it take my spirit,” he wrote in one of his final public statements.
His advocacy efforts included joining the board of Target ALS in December 2025, where he worked to raise awareness and funding for research.
Legacy and Family’s Final Goodbye
Eric Dane’s passing was marked by a heartfelt statement from his family, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of his first appearance as Dr. Mark Sloan on “Grey’s Anatomy.” “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed 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 family said.
Rebecca Gayheart’s decision to remain by Dane’s side during his illness, despite their separation, drew admiration from many. One netizen aptly captured the sentiment, writing, “I think it’s so lovely of her to be by his side and care for him and withdraw divorce papers.”
Their story is a poignant reminder of the enduring power of familial love and the strength found in unity during life’s most challenging moments.
