Patrick Dempsey, who starred alongside Eric Dane on Grey’s Anatomy, has spoken about the actor’s final days following his death.
Dane died this week, after publicly sharing his amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis in April last year.
ALS is a progressive disease that damages nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, gradually affecting movement, speech, and other vital functions.
Confirmation of the actor’s passing came late on Thursday night through his representatives, who said he was 53.
“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 [actress Rebecca Gayheart] and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world,” a statement read.
“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.”
Dempsey, who remained in touch with Dane after their time working together, addressed the news during a UK radio appearance on Friday and described the last update he had received from the actor.
Speaking to Chris Evans on Virgin Radio, Dempsey said: “I just woke up this morning, and I was very sad to read the news. It’s hard to put into words. I feel really so sad for his children. I was corresponding with him, we were texting. So I spoke to him about a week ago.”
He explained that, in the days before Dane’s death, those close to him could see how quickly his condition was advancing as friends visited to say goodbye.
He continued: “Some friends of ours went in to see him and he was really starting to lose his ability to speak, he was bed-ridden and it was very hard for him to swallow. The quality of his life was deteriorating so rapidly.”
Dempsey also reflected on Dane’s presence at work, calling him the ‘funniest man’ and emphasizing the energy he brought to set.
“He’s such a joy to work with, and I want to just remember him in that spirit,” Dempsey added.
“Anytime he was on set, he brought so much fun to it. He had a great sense of humor. He was easy to work with.
“We got along instantly. His first scene was him in all his glory coming out of the bathroom with a towel on looking amazing, making me feel completely out of shape and insignificant.”