How Dax Shepard, Eric Dane Bonded After Tense Encounter at AA Meeting

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Dax Shepard and Eric Dane didn’t always have a bromance.

Despite an initial heated argument at an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, the former Parenthood star and the late Grey’s Anatomy actor gradually became close.

Shepard described repeatedly meeting with the same person, saying it felt like neither of them could avoid it. He explained that over the next two years, he began to understand and connect with this person, as he shared on Anderson Cooper’s podcast, All There Is, which explores themes of grief. The podcast episode was published on April 2nd.

Shepard shared that he and the Euphoria actor both experienced growing up without fathers, and this shared loss led them to question what it means to be a man.

Oh my god, it just kills me thinking about it. He was always searching for… approval, you know? That ‘manly’ thing, and it manifested in ways I really disliked – things I’m positive he saw reflected in me too. But then, there was this one time he really nailed it, he was just… perfect. And I honestly couldn’t believe I was saying it, but it’s still one of the most amazing things I’ve ever heard him say. It just… wrecked me in the best way. Losing him at 53 to ALS was just… devastating.

A week or so later, one of the people he was working with told him something surprising: ‘I never thought I’d say this, but I’ve fallen in love with Dax.’

The friends became closer, spending time at each other’s houses and talking about the challenges they faced as men.

He described how they’d bond while doing chores, like vacuuming, filling the role of a father figure. They’d talk about what it means to grow up and become a man, and he realized he was falling in love with someone vulnerable who was simply trying his best to mature and find his way.

Shepard reported that after Dane Cook received an ALS diagnosis in June 2024, his health deteriorated very quickly.

You know, I’ve always admired Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, and seeing him publicly share his battle with depression really struck me. It was such a powerful moment because, for years, he built this image of ultimate strength and physical perfection. To then be so vulnerable and open about something that truly diminishes you – something so human – I honestly think it was the bravest thing he’s ever done. It took more courage to embrace that vulnerability than any of his incredible physical feats.

Following Shepard’s touching story about Dane, read on to see other tributes to the actor…

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 teams. She praised his talent as an actor, noting that his role as Dr. Mark Sloan had a lasting impact on the show and its viewers. Rhimes expressed gratitude for his artistry, kindness, and friendship over the years, and extended 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 a truly hilarious person. He was a delight to work with, and Patrick wanted to cherish those fun memories. Whenever he was on set, he brought a wonderful energy and made everyone laugh. He was naturally funny, easygoing, and they clicked immediately. Patrick recalled his first scene vividly: he emerged from the bathroom wrapped in a towel, looking fantastic, which playfully made Patrick feel self-conscious about his own appearance.

Oh my gosh, you will NOT believe this! The creator of Grey’s Anatomy was talking about getting Eric back for an episode in season 19 – and she was standing right next to the amazing Debbie Allen while she told the story! Apparently, it was during the pandemic, and they had to get him back to properly honor everything he did for the show. I was practically screaming when I heard it – it was such a beautiful tribute!

In an Instagram post, she remembered calling Eric, who picked up right away. She asked him to come back to work, acknowledging the difficulties of filming during a pandemic, but explaining they would shoot outdoors and maintain social distancing 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 joked about abandoning safety protocols for a hug. She shared that she’ll always remember his incredible hugs, calling him a dear friend and wishing him peace.

The White Lotus actress shared the news of Eric’s passing on her Instagram Story, expressing her sadness with a sad face and a broken heart emoji.

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, often signaled by a twinkle in his eye, which always delivered a memorable line. She ended by saying he would be deeply missed.

Although the actress never worked with Eric on Grey’s Anatomy, she fondly remembered him in a tribute, saying she sees his character’s name displayed in the hospital hallways every week.

In an Instagram post on February 20th, she shared that Eric had a huge and undeniable impact on the show and its audience. 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 memories of 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 also expressed his happiness that they had the chance to perform together in the band Americana.

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

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 upcoming memoir, which her publishing company will release, she shared that he expressed a desire for his family to understand his deep love for them and to leave behind 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 after his passing. She posted a message on Instagram, tagging him and writing, “I love you. And yours.”

Actor Topher Grace fondly remembered playing fantasy football with Eric Dane, sharing on X (formerly Twitter) how much the league will miss him. He sent well wishes to Dane 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. He told Variety he was deeply saddened by the loss of his friend and that it was an honor to work with him. He also shared his support for Dane’s family and expressed hope that his memory will be cherished.

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

Sarah, who also worked with Eric on Grey’s Anatomy, shared the sad news on her Instagram Story, posting “Rest in peace” along with several crying emojis.

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

She expressed her sadness, describing ALS as a devastating illness. She hopes his memory will encourage further research, greater awareness, and ultimately, a cure. He will 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 shocking or surprisingly insightful. He was incredibly funny, with a knack for finding humor in the unexpected and loved to playfully surprise 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 with her when she found Lucy, her cherished chihuahua rescue. He often called her ‘Milano,’ acting as if that was the only part of her name he needed to remember.

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 opposite each other as Owen Hunt and Dr. Mark Sloan on the ABC medical drama.

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

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2026-04-10 22:50