Patrick Dempsey Details Eric Dane’s Final Days With ALS

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Patrick Dempsey is mourning his friend Eric Dane.

Patrick, a former co-star of Eric on Grey’s Anatomy for six seasons, shared details about Eric’s final moments. Eric passed away on February 19th at the age of 53 after a year-long struggle with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

Patrick shared in a February 20th interview on Virgin Radio UK that he was deeply saddened by the news. He found it difficult to express how he felt, particularly for the person’s children. He had been texting with the individual and had spoken to them about a week prior to the interview.

In that time, Patrick learned how much Eric’s ALS had progressed.

He continued, explaining that some friends had visited and found him rapidly declining. He was losing his ability to speak, was confined to bed, and had difficulty swallowing, all of which significantly worsened his quality of life.

The 60-year-old also fondly remembered his time working with Eric on Grey’s Anatomy. Eric shares two daughters, 15-year-old Billie and 14-year-old Georgia, with his wife, Rebecca Gayheart.

He truly was the funniest person I knew. Working with him was an absolute joy, and I want to always remember him for the incredible energy he brought to everything. Honestly, whenever he was on set, the whole atmosphere just lit up. He had this amazing sense of humor and was so easygoing – we clicked instantly. I’ll never forget his first scene; he walked out of the bathroom wrapped in a towel, looking fantastic, and suddenly I felt incredibly self-conscious about my own physique! He had a way of doing that – making everyone around him feel both happy and a little bit humbled.

The lead actor from Memory of a Killer shared that they and a colleague quickly became friends on set, and that friendship has lasted for twenty years.

We connected immediately because we didn’t see each other as rivals; instead, we had a genuine respect for one another. He was incredibly smart, and I’ll always cherish the fun times we shared. It’s a real loss for those of us left behind, as he brought so much joy to others.

Patrick praised Eric for honestly sharing the difficult truths about living with ALS, and shared how his friend’s passing has been a powerful reminder to him about what truly matters.

You know, watching him in those final days was truly inspiring. He really put a spotlight on this awful disease with such courage, and it was a powerful reminder for all of us. It just reinforced what I always say: we need to live each day to the fullest, like it’s our last. It’s about appreciating every moment and not taking anything for granted.

You know, as someone who looks at wellness and how we live our lives, I’m constantly reminded that it’s so easy to get caught up in everything that’s going wrong in the world. But it’s vital to pause and truly appreciate the good things – every single moment, actually. For me, that means prioritizing time with loved ones and finding ways to give back. Simple acts of kindness and service can make a huge difference, not just for others, but for your own well-being too. It’s about choosing love and gratitude, even when things are tough.

Keep reading for more stars’ tributes to Eric following his passing…

The actor from I, Tonya, who appeared with Eric in the 2023 movie Americana, shared thoughts on his friendship with the Grey’s Anatomy actor.

Paul shared on Instagram that the band worked hard to find shows, cope with difficulties, and avoid substance abuse. He expressed gratitude that they had the chance to perform together in the film Americana.

He expressed his love and regret that they couldn’t spend more time together, offering a blessing of faith and a promise to meet again.

The journalist shared she was “heartbroken” by the “devastating news” of Eric’s death.

She praised his bravery in facing his diagnosis, sharing on X that he powerfully used his platform to raise awareness about life with ALS.

Regarding his forthcoming memoir, which her publishing company will release, she said he wanted to express his love for his family and create a legacy they could cherish.

The actress from Cruel Intentions, who starred alongside Dane in the 1990s series Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane, shared her sympathy by posting a tribute to him on Instagram. She wrote, “I love you. And yours.”

Actor from That ’70s Show shared a touching message on X about his Fantasy Football league with Eric Dane. He wrote that the league will miss Dane and sent him well wishes as he battles ALS, saying they’ll be thinking of him and continuing to support the fight against the disease.

The creator of Euphoria said he considered his friendship with Eric Dane, who played Cal Jacobs on the show, to be a special blessing, especially after Dane’s recent death.

In a statement to Variety, he expressed his deep sadness, saying, “I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend Eric. It was an honor to work with him, and I truly treasured our friendship. Our thoughts are with Eric’s family, and we hope his memory brings comfort.”

His “Redeeming Love” co-star shared her sadness about Eric’s passing on Instagram, posting a photo of them together on set. She described him as a warm, generous, and dedicated person who was passionate about his work. She also noted that he was kind and made everyone feel valued.

She expressed that ALS is a devastating illness, and hoped his memory would encourage further research, greater awareness, and ultimately, a cure. She said he would be greatly missed.

The actress from Charmed celebrated her friendship with Eric, who played her romantic partner on the show.

She remembered a mischievous glint in Eric’s eye just before he’d say something unexpectedly funny or thought-provoking. He had a really quick wit, enjoyed finding humor in strange things, and loved surprising people.

And she credited him with her daring 2003 look.

Alyssa went on to say that he encouraged her to get a pixie cut and a nose piercing. He was also there when she found Lucy, her rescue chihuahua, and fondly called her ‘Milano,’ as if that was all he needed to say her name.

She concluded, “My heart is with the people who were lucky enough to be his home.”

Kevin McKidd, known for his role on Grey’s Anatomy, posted a tribute to his former costar, Dane DeHaan, on Instagram. He shared a photo and wrote, “Rest in peace buddy.” They played colleagues on the ABC medical drama; McKidd was Owen Hunt and DeHaan played Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed “McSteamy.”

Former Real Housewives of Atlanta star recalled Eric Dane’s nickname on Grey’s Anatomy, jokingly posting on Instagram, “Oh my goodness, not McSteamy!”

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2026-02-20 16:48