Dax Shepard Details Honoring Friend Eric Dane During AA Meeting

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Dax Shepard honored his late friend Eric Dane in private.

The former star of Parenthood revealed that his Alcoholics Anonymous group honored the Grey’s Anatomy actor after he passed away on February 19th at age 53.

On the March 2nd episode of his podcast, Armchair Expert, Dax revealed they had a “very, very, very sweet meeting” the night before.

You know, Monica Padman asked if something was up with Eric, and it actually led to a really touching moment for our group. We were all just remembering a dear friend of ours, and it was a sweet, albeit a little emotional, time.

He continued, explaining that their meetings usually didn’t include women. It was traditionally an all-male gathering, but when a woman did attend, she was fantastic.

She said she didn’t understand how everyone else had managed to get through their presentations without crying, and that she planned to cry throughout hers – even for all of us. We thought that was a really nice sentiment, and someone needed to say it.

I’ve been following this story for a while, and it’s amazing to hear how these two became friends! Apparently, about ten years ago, they almost came to blows at an AA meeting. Can you believe it? From nearly fighting to becoming close – it just goes to show you never know what life has in store. He’s talked about it before, and it’s a really fascinating story.

I didn’t always get along with Eric Dane, but I absolutely adore him now,” Dax Shepard recently shared with Brad Pitt on his podcast. “We had a rough start. I witnessed Eric threaten someone during a meeting, and I immediately confronted him, using very colorful language.

Dax said Eric was annoyed with him because he’d been playing with the timer during the meeting.

He told me that if I pressed the timer one more time, he would throw me at the candle. I responded by telling him that was enough and challenged him to step outside and fight. We went outside, and I was ready to attack him—all of this happening at an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, a place meant for recovery and support.

Instead of ever coming to blows, the pair eventually saw eye-to-eye and “became friends.” 

Looking back on things, I remember sharing how I wasn’t really at my best when that happened. I was going through a tough time, and it definitely colored how I reacted. It’s easy to judge past actions, but it’s important to remember we all have moments where we’re not operating at 100%.

He told Dax on the September 2024 episode of Armchair Expert that he might have been intoxicated at the time. Apparently, they were outside when Dax asked him what had just happened. Before he could respond, their podcast sponsor stepped in between them.

Eric recalled a moment when someone admitted they used to dislike him, saying, ‘I hated you for so long, but I’ve come to really love you.’ He added that he likely responded with similar feelings at the time.

Dax wasn’t the only celebrity to remember Eric after he passed away. Here’s a look at other stars who paid tribute to his life…

The actress from Euphoria posted a clip from Eric’s Netflix special, Famous Last Words, and wrote, “Forever will love you.”

Shonda Rhimes shared a heartfelt message on February 20th, remembering Eric Dane as a cherished part of the Shondaland and Grey’s Anatomy communities. She praised his talent as an actor, noting that his performance as Dr. Mark Sloan had a lasting impact on both the show and its viewers.

Rhimes expressed gratitude for his artistry, kindness, friendship, and humanity over the years, and extended her condolences to his family, friends, and fans.

The Grey’s Anatomy alum remembered his former costar during an appearance on Virgin Radio UK. 

Patrick fondly remembered him as the funniest person he knew. He was a delight to work with, and Patrick wanted to cherish those happy memories. Whenever he was on set, he brought a lot of energy and laughter. He was naturally funny, easygoing, and they clicked right away. Patrick recalled his first scene vividly – he emerged from the bathroom looking fantastic with a towel draped over him, which hilariously made Patrick feel self-conscious about his own appearance.

The creator of Grey’s Anatomy, shown here with actress Debbie Allen, recounted how they brought Eric back for an episode in season 19 during the pandemic as a tribute to his work.

In an Instagram post, she remembered calling Eric, who picked up right away. She asked if he’d be willing to return to filming, acknowledging the difficulties of shooting during a pandemic. She explained they would film outdoors, keeping a safe distance, because ‘the world needs joy, and Mark and Lexie are joy.’ He simply asked for the location and time. When she arrived on set, he playfully suggested they forget the rules and hug. She shared that she’ll always remember Eric’s incredible hugs, adding, ‘Oh my friend. I wish you peace.’

The actress from The White Lotus shared the news of Eric’s passing on her Instagram Story, adding a sad face and broken heart emoji to express her condolences.

Eric’s co-star from Euphoria, who played his wife on the show, posted a touching selfie of them together on her Instagram, along with the message, “RIP MR. DANE.”

Kim, who had a romantic connection with Eric on Grey’s Anatomy, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. She described Eric as a radiant person, both on and off the set of Grey’s. She fondly remembered his playful spirit and impeccable comedic timing, recalling how he’d deliver lines with a mischievous twinkle in his eye that always surprised and delighted. She said he will be deeply missed, especially by his family, Rebecca and their daughters.

As a lifestyle expert, I often talk about the impact people have on spaces, and this story really resonated with me. The actress shared a beautiful tribute to a former colleague, explaining that even though they didn’t work together on Grey’s Anatomy, she sees his character’s name everywhere she goes on set each week. It’s a lovely reminder of how legacies live on, even after someone is gone.

In a post on February 20th, she shared that Eric had a huge and undeniable impact on the show and everyone who watched it. She described him as an incredibly talented person who will be deeply missed, and expressed her sympathy to his family.

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

Paul shared on Instagram that the band struggled with booking shows, dealing with hardship, and maintaining sobriety. He expressed gratitude for the chance they had to perform together in the film Americana.

He finished by saying he loved me and wished they’d had more time together. He told me to find comfort in God’s love and promised we would meet again.

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

She praised his bravery in facing his ALS diagnosis, noting he powerfully shared his experiences with the world on X.

Regarding his new memoir, which will be published through her publishing company, she said he wanted to express his love for his family and leave them with a story that would make them proud.

The actress from Cruel Intentions, who starred alongside Dane in the 1990s TV show Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane, shared her sadness with a touching message on Instagram. She tagged the late actor and wrote, “I love you. And yours.”

Topher Grace, known for his role in That ’70s Show, shared a heartfelt message on X about his friend and fellow Fantasy Football league member, Eric Dane. He wrote that the league will miss Dane and sent him well wishes as he battles ALS, adding, “Let’s keep fighting the fight to solve ALS.”

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 devastated by the loss of our friend Eric. It was a privilege to work with him, and I truly cherished our friendship. Our thoughts are with Eric’s family, and we hope his memory brings comfort to those who knew him.”

The Grey’s Anatomy actor announced the passing of a former colleague on his Instagram Story on February 19th, simply writing “Rest in Peace.”

Sarah, who also starred with Eric on Grey’s Anatomy, shared the news on her Instagram Story, adding several crying emojis and writing “Rest in peace.”

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 truly passionate about his work. She added that he was incredibly 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 advancements in finding 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 playful glint in Eric’s eyes just before he’d say something shocking or thought-provoking. He was incredibly funny, appreciating the silliness in life and loved to surprise people.

And she credited him with her daring 2003 look.

Alyssa went on to say that he encouraged her to get her hair cut into a pixie style and to get a nose piercing. He was also with her when they found Lucy, her cherished chihuahua rescue. He affectionately called her ‘Milano,’ often using just that nickname as if it were her whole 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 of DeHaan with the message, “Rest in peace buddy.”

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

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2026-03-02 22:20