Rebecca Gayheart steps out in Los Angeles after Eric Dane’s death as friends launch GoFundMe to support his teenage daughters

For the first time since the devastating news, Rebecca Gayheart was seen in Los Angeles, visibly shaken as she visited the home where her husband, Eric Dane, had been living before his death at 53.

Draped in a beige trench coat and shielding her eyes with glasses, the actress cut a quietly somber figure, showing the weight of her loss.

Gayheart, 54, has reportedly been left “shattered” after watching Dane decline so quickly following his ALS diagnosis, a cruel illness that can rob its victims of physical control while leaving their spirit intact.

The sighting came shortly after friends of Dane set up a GoFundMe to help provide for his daughters, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13, as they navigate life without their father.

Eric Dane’s Final Battle with ALS

Eric Dane’s death was announced on Thursday, less than a year after revealing he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative condition, has no cure and often moves rapidly, leaving families struggling to cope with its devastating effects.

Dane, best known for his breakout role as McSteamy on Grey’s Anatomy, became an outspoken advocate for ALS awareness, using his platform to help fellow patients even as his own health declined.

Friends emphasized that he remained committed to others despite facing one of the most challenging battles imaginable.

A Life of Love and Complicated Relationships

Dane and Gayheart met in 2003 and married less than a year later in Las Vegas.

The couple separated in 2018 but reconciled in 2025, remaining together until Dane’s passing.

Their relationship was complex, Gayheart candidly admitted, but their shared devotion to their daughters never wavered.

Earlier, on the Broad Ideas podcast, Gayheart described guiding their girls through their father’s illness.

She told them: “He is our family. He is your father. We show up, and we try to do it with dignity and grace.”

Despite acknowledging the challenges of her own emotions, she emphasized the importance of modeling resilience and presence for Billie and Georgia.

Dane’s Secret Final Message

In a deeply moving gesture, Dane recorded a posthumous interview for Netflix, titled Famous Last Words: Eric Dane, capturing his reflections and advice for his daughters.

Recorded in secret and released after his death, the 50-minute documentary allows fans and family alike to hear his voice and wisdom one last time.

Dane addressed his daughters directly, saying: “Billie and Georgia, these words are for you.

I tried. I stumbled sometimes, but I tried. Overall, we had a blast, didn’t we?”

Lessons From a Father’s Heart

In the Netflix documentary, Dane shared four core lessons he hoped his daughters would carry forward:

1. Live in the moment – Stop dwelling on past mistakes or worrying endlessly. Life is meant to be experienced now.

2. Fall in love – Not only with a person, but with passions, hobbies, and the things that make life meaningful. For Dane, acting was that love.

3. Choose friends wisely – Surround yourself with people who support, guide, and challenge you unconditionally.

4. Fight with dignity – Face life’s trials, health challenges, and adversity with integrity and strength. Never surrender your spirit, even when your body fails.

Dane’s words were filled with warmth, guidance, and vulnerability, ending with a heartfelt farewell: “Billie and Georgia, you are my heart.

You are my everything. Good night. I love you. Those are my last words.”

Friends Rally to Support His Daughters

In the wake of Dane’s death, friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Billie and Georgia.

By Friday afternoon, it had raised $7,705 toward a $250,000 goal.

The fundraiser underscores the love and respect Dane inspired among those closest to him, ensuring his children have stability and support during this difficult time.

What’s Next?

Gayheart and Dane’s daughters face the immediate challenge of grieving while navigating adolescence without their father.

The GoFundMe and documentary provide some solace, but the months ahead will be emotionally complex.

Fans and the public are invited to honor Dane’s legacy by contributing to the fund or watching his final documentary, which captures his humor, wisdom, and enduring spirit.

Summary

Eric Dane’s passing at 53 has left a profound void for his family, particularly his daughters Billie and Georgia.

Through a secret Netflix interview, Dane offered a final, loving message filled with guidance and encouragement.

Meanwhile, Rebecca Gayheart has stepped forward publicly in grief, showing strength amid personal loss.

Friends have launched a GoFundMe to support his children, reflecting the enduring impact Dane had on those around him and the legacy of love he leaves behind.