Eric Dane looked healthy in final red carpet appearance with girlfriend just eight months before his death at 53

It was so lovely to see Eric Dane looking vibrant and happy with Janell Shirtcliff back in June. That was just eight months before his unexpected passing at the age of 53, and it’s a reminder to cherish those moments. As someone who focuses on well-being, I always say that radiating joy is the best look of all, and he certainly had that down.

The father of two, who is unwell, smiled happily at his girlfriend, a 42-year-old photographer, as they had their picture taken at the Los Angeles premiere of the Amazon Prime Video series, Countdown. They’ve been dating since 2022.

Dane passed away Thursday afternoon after a brave fight with ALS, a progressive and incurable neurological disease.

The award-winning actor received a diagnosis of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in April 2025. Over the following months, he gradually lost the ability to move his right arm and legs.

Despite facing challenges, Dane was able to play the role of Special Agent Nathan Blythe in Derek Haas’ crime drama, which unfortunately only lasted one season before being canceled last October.

Jensen Ackles, who starred alongside the Euphoria actor in Countdown, described him as bringing a calm and effective leadership to the cast, which was very welcome.

As a big fan, I was so glad to hear Jared Ackles say that experience was incredibly helpful in building a strong team, not just while filming, but in all our interactions. It really brought everyone closer together, on and off screen.

Even though he was separated from his wife, Shirtcliff, Dane passed away surrounded by the people he loved most: his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and his daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14, who meant everything to him.

Eric’s family shared that after being diagnosed with ALS, he dedicated himself to raising awareness and supporting research, hoping to help others battling the disease.

We are heartbroken by the loss of Eric, who will be dearly missed and fondly remembered. He cherished his fans and was incredibly thankful for all the love and support they showed him. His family asks for privacy as they grieve.

Last March, the 54-year-old actress, known for her role in ‘Jawbreaker,’ dropped her divorce case after being separated from her spouse for seven years.

Dane made his final public appearance online on December 2nd, participating in an event for the ALS advocacy group, I AM ALS.

He just… let it all out, you know? He told me, and it broke my heart, that he honestly doesn’t have a reason to feel good, ever. Not a single day goes by where he feels genuinely happy. It was so raw and honest, and honestly, it just makes me adore him even more.

I wouldn’t fault anyone if I needed to retreat to my room and spend a couple of weeks just being sad. More importantly, I feel driven to share what I’m going through with others, because right now, my life feels like it’s about something bigger than myself.

I’ve had to really think about this because, honestly, I tend to be self-centered. I’d prefer to focus entirely on my own life, but I know I wouldn’t be able to grow or be happy if I did.

People with ALS typically live for two to five years after their first symptoms appear. While there’s currently no cure, FDA-approved treatments and therapies like physical and speech therapy can help slow down how quickly the disease gets worse.

Oh my gosh, Dane DeHaan was amazing as Cal Jacobs! I seriously couldn’t look away. He finished playing that complicated, secretive real estate agent in the newest season of Euphoria – season three, and it’s eight episodes long. It finally drops on HBO Max on April 12th, and I’ve already marked my calendar! I’m so obsessed with his portrayal, it was just… everything!

The next season of Sam Levinson’s intense drama will feature new cast members including Sharon Stone, Rosalía, Marshawn Lynch, and Kadeem Hardison.

The actor, originally from San Francisco, also filmed the six-part series Kabul and a single episode of Brilliant Minds last year.

Eric Dane became well-known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed ‘McSteamy,’ on the ABC television show Grey’s Anatomy, which he played from 2006 to 2012.

2026-02-20 17:04

Read More