Katherine Heigl Celebrates Eric Dane’s “Gold” Days After His Death

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It’s a beautiful day for Katherine Heigl to remember the life of Eric Dane.

The actress, who appeared with Eric on the TV show Grey’s Anatomy, spoke movingly about loss just days after the Euphoria actor passed away after a year-long struggle with ALS.

Katherine explained in an Instagram post on February 22nd that she struggled with whether or not to share what she was going through. She prefers to grieve privately, usually only sharing her feelings and memories with close loved ones or through personal reflection. However, she worried that staying silent might be misinterpreted as indifference, and she didn’t want that to happen.

She also expressed her condolences to Eric’s family, including his ex-wife Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he shared two children: Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14. Eric was known for his role in the film Burlesque.

Rebecca, Billie, Georgia… It’s hard to know what to say when someone experiences a loss like yours,” she went on. “‘I’m sorry’ and ‘I’m praying for you’ don’t seem to offer much comfort when you’re hurting so deeply. So, I’ll share something that has helped me through my own grief: a poem by Robert Frost.”

Katherine, age 47, recited the famous poem “Nothing Gold Can Stay.” She shared that she has the poem tattooed on her skin, written in her parents’ handwriting.

She wrote that the first green of spring is like gold—beautiful, but fleeting. These early leaves are like flowers, but that lasts only a short time. Then, leaves become simply leaves. Just as the Garden of Eden fell into sorrow, and dawn fades into day, nothing golden can last forever.

She said she’d always cherish the memory of Eric and was thankful for even the short time she knew him. ‘Thank you for letting us all share in his life. Wishing you all the best on your next journey, old friend,’ she concluded.

The Suits actress shared a tribute following her Grey’s Anatomy colleague, Chyler Leigh’s, reaction to the news of Eric’s death on February 19th.

Chyler described the past two days as incredibly difficult in a statement to TopMob News. She expressed disbelief at having to talk about something in the past tense, saying, ‘I never thought I would be using the term ‘had or was,’ but here we are. And I hate it.’

She went on to say that Eric was a truly kind person. His humor and laugh were contagious, and he was incredibly intelligent – able to discuss deep ideas for hours, even while working. He was a wonderful father who adored his daughters, and he poured his heart into both his work and the things he believed in.

And his legacy will continue to live on.

She went on, “The Universe is certainly embracing Eric now, and I will hold him in my heart always.”

To see how more stars reacted to Eric’s death, read on…

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 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 a truly hilarious person. He described working with him as a joy, and wanted to cherish those happy memories. Whenever he was on set, he brought a lot of energy and laughter. He was naturally funny, incredibly easygoing, and they clicked immediately. Patrick recalled his first scene vividly – him emerging from the bathroom looking fantastic with a towel, which playfully 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 back the character Eric for a season 19 episode as a tribute during the COVID-19 pandemic.

I was so happy when Eric picked up right away when I called! I asked him if he’d consider coming back to work, knowing things were tough with the pandemic and all the safety precautions. I explained we’d shoot on the beach and keep our distance, because honestly, the world really needed some happiness, and Mark and Lexie are pure joy. He just wanted to know the details! When I got to set, he immediately said, ‘We’re ditching the rules and hugging!’ And that’s what I’ll remember most about Eric Dane – his hugs. They were the absolute best. He was such a friend, and I’m sending him all my best wishes for peace.

The actress from The White Lotus 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 set, especially when he was with his family. She fondly remembered his playful spirit and impeccable comedic timing during filming, recalling how he’d deliver lines with a mischievous glint in his eye that would leave everyone amazed. She expressed how much he would be missed.

Although the actress wasn’t on Grey’s Anatomy at the same time as Eric, she mentioned in a heartfelt message that she sees his character’s name displayed in the hospital hallways every week while filming.

On February 20th, she posted on Instagram that Eric had a huge and undeniable impact on the show and its viewers. She described him as a truly memorable performer who will be deeply missed, and shared her sympathy with 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 opportunity they had to perform together in the film Americana.

He expressed his love, saying, “I love you.” He wished they’d had more time together and encouraged them to find comfort in God’s love, promising to see them again.

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

She praised his bravery in facing his diagnosis, writing on X that he powerfully shared his experiences with ALS, giving a voice to those living with the condition.

Regarding his upcoming memoir, which her publishing company will release, she said he wanted to share with his family just how much he loved them and leave behind a story that would make them proud.

The actress from Cruel Intentions, who starred with Dane in the 1990s TV series Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane, shared her sympathy by posting about the late actor on Instagram and writing, “I love you. And yours.”

Actor Topher Grace shared a heartfelt message on X about his friend, Eric Dane. He reminisced about the fun they had together in their Fantasy Football league, affectionately calling their group the ‘Franklin strip fanatics.’ Grace expressed sadness over Dane’s battle with ALS, saying they’ll miss him but know he’ll be watching, and wished him strength in his fight against the disease.

The creator of Euphoria described his friendship with Eric Dane, who played Cal Jacobs on the show, as a cherished blessing, especially after Dane’s recent death. In a statement to Variety, he expressed his deep sadness, calling it an honor to have worked with Eric and emphasizing how much he valued their friendship. He shared his condolences with Eric’s family and wished his memory would be a source of comfort.

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 appeared on Grey’s Anatomy with Eric, shared the news on her Instagram Story, posting “Rest in peace” alongside multiple crying emojis.

His Redeeming Love co-star shared on Instagram that she was deeply saddened to hear of Eric’s passing. She remembered him as a warm, generous, and dedicated person who was truly passionate about his work. She added that he was kind to everyone on set and made them all feel valued.

She expressed her sadness about his passing, describing ALS as a devastating illness. She hopes his memory will encourage further research, greater awareness, and ultimately, a cure for the disease, and noted 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 unexpectedly funny or thought-provoking. He was known for his quick wit, his appreciation for the ridiculous, and his knack for surprising people.

And she credited him with her daring 2003 look.

Alyssa went on to say that he encouraged her to get her short pixie cut and a nose piercing. He was also there with her when she found Lucy, her cherished chihuahua rescue. He playfully called her ‘Milano,’ acting as if that was the only 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 on the ABC medical drama, where McKidd played Owen Hunt and DeHaan was Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed “McSteamy.”

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

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2026-02-23 00:48