Eric Dane’s Instagram photos shared by Rebecca Gayheart show ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ star full of joy before ALS death at 53

The final photos Rebecca Gayheart shared of Eric Dane capture a smiling father on vacation, relaxed, engaged and full of life, moments that now stand in poignant contrast to the news of his death at 53.

Dane, known for his roles on Euphoria and Grey’s Anatomy, died Thursday afternoon (February 19), his family confirmed in a statement. “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” the statement said. “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: “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. 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.”


Dane died following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), ten months after he publicly disclosed his diagnosis.

While headlines now focus on his illness and passing, Gayheart’s last posted images of the actor tell a different story, one of warmth and family. In the vacation photos she shared, Dane appears joyful and present, embracing time with his daughters and projecting vitality.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rebecca Gayheart (@rebeccagayheartdane)

Gayheart and Dane married in 2004. She filed for divorce in 2018, but the split was never finalized. In March 2025, she moved to dismiss the divorce petition. Although they had lived separately for years, they continued to co-parent their two daughters, Billie and Georgia.

According to Parade website, Gayheart reflected on their evolving relationship, explaining that while their marriage had changed, their bond as a family remained intact. She wrote that she and the girls frequently spent time at Dane’s home, just a 12-minute drive from theirs, sharing meals and everyday routines. During his ALS battle, she also stepped in when nursing shifts were not covered.

“Eric knows that I am always going to want the best for him. That I’m going to do my best to do right by him. And I know he would do the same for me,” she wrote.