Janell Shirtcliff, the girlfriend of late actor Eric Dane, has posted a heartbreaking and emotional tribute on social media following his death from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The Grey's Anatomy star passed away on Thursday at the age of 53, just ten months after publicly revealing his diagnosis with the progressive neurodegenerative disease.
Moving Instagram Tribute
On Saturday morning, Shirtcliff shared a collection of photographs on her Instagram Stories that captured cherished moments from her four-year relationship with the actor. The 42-year-old photographer, who made her red carpet debut with Dane at the Countdown premiere in Los Angeles in June 2025, posted images showing the couple kissing, smiling together in affectionate selfies, and singing while driving across rugged terrain with dramatic cliffs in the background.
Complex Personal Situation
Throughout their relationship, Dane remained legally married to actress Rebecca Gayhart, 54, whom he wed in 2004. Gayhart had filed for divorce in 2018, but the proceedings were halted in March 2025 as she wanted to demonstrate to their daughters the importance of standing by family. Despite this complex situation, Shirtcliff's tribute reflected the deep connection she shared with the actor during his final years.
Fundraiser for Daughters
The tribute came one day after friends of the Euphoria actor established a GoFundMe crowdfunding page for Dane's and Gayhart's daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14. The fundraiser, created with an initial goal of $250,000, had already achieved nearly half that amount within hours of being launched.
A statement on the GoFundMe page read: "It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Eric Dane after a hard-fought battle with ALS, leaving behind his devoted wife, Rebecca, and his two teenage daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the centre of his world."
Advocacy and Legacy
The statement continued: "Following his diagnosis, Eric became a passionate spokesperson for the ALS community, using his voice and platform to advocate for fellow patients and to push for greater awareness. Even as his own health declined, he remained deeply committed to helping others facing the same devastating disease."
The family confirmed Dane's passing in a statement to People magazine, saying: "With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the centre of his world."
Remembering the Actor
Eric Dane was best known for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running medical drama Grey's Anatomy, a role that earned him widespread recognition and a devoted fan following. His career also included notable performances in films like Marley and Me and television series including Charmed and Euphoria.
The tribute shared by Shirtcliff also featured a photograph of a cheerful-looking Dane apparently getting a tattoo, capturing one of the many personal moments they shared together. The images collectively painted a picture of a relationship filled with affection and shared experiences, even as Dane battled the debilitating effects of ALS.
Family's Request for Privacy
In their statement, the family added: "Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he's received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time."
The GoFundMe organizers emphasized that any contribution, regardless of size, would help provide stability for Dane's daughters during this difficult period and in the future. The rapid response to the fundraiser demonstrated the widespread affection and respect for the actor within both the entertainment community and among his fans worldwide.
