As fans and friends mourn Eric Dane following his death at age 53, the late actor’s family is grateful for the support.
Dane’s widow Rebecca Gayheart thanked supporters Saturday on her Instagram Story, noting that they were “truly holding us up” after her late husband died on Thursday, following a year-long struggle with ALS.
“I am so blown away by the outpouring of love and support from our community,” wrote Gayheart on her Instagram Story. “There aren’t words to express our gratitude. You are truly holding us up during this difficult time.”
Friends of the Euphoria star’s family launched a GoFundMe to support their two daughters, Billie and Georgia. The campaign has surpassed its original $250,000 goal with donations from Sam Levinson, Hailey Bieber, Alyssa Milano, Brad Falchuk, Randall Emmett and more.
On Thursday, Dane’s family announced that he died after revealing his ALS diagnosis last April. “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” they said in a statement. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.”
The family continued, “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.”