Eric Dane, the famed heartthrob from “Grey’s Anatomy,” was seen in a wheelchair during a recent outing with his estranged wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughter, amidst his ongoing health struggles with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). The 52-year-old actor appeared frail while leaving a sushi restaurant in Hollywood, with their daughter trailing behind—though it’s uncertain whether she is 15-year-old Billie or 13-year-old Georgia.
Sources close to the family indicate that Gayheart and their children are focused on creating as many joyful experiences as possible for Dane during this challenging time. “Rebecca and her kids want to treat things with Eric, their dad, as normal as possible,” an insider shared. “They want to have as many feel-good moments as they can while he is healthy enough to be out and about.”
The sighting comes shortly after Dane, while at Washington D.C. airport, was asked how he was managing. His response was a poignant, “Keep the faith, man,” indicating a spirit of resilience in the face of his diagnosis.
Dane’s journey with ALS began when he initially mistook weakness in his right hand for fatigue. After a series of tests, he was officially diagnosed in April 2024. Since then, his health has deteriorated, most notably losing the use of his right arm by June. Despite the grim prognosis, which allows for a life expectancy of three to five years, Dane’s loved ones reveal he strives to be a beacon of hope for others facing similar struggles.
Following a snorkeling trip earlier this year where he experienced a frightening moment, realizing he couldn’t keep himself afloat, Dane has further embraced the importance of living in the moment with family. The actor expressed heartbreak over the incident and emphasized the significant impact it had on him, reinforcing his commitment to cherish every moment.
In a twist of fate, Dane and Gayheart recently dismissed their divorce filing, reinforcing their bond and co-parenting strategy as they face his illness. Their relationship has evolved over the years and took a significant turn when Gayheart opted not to proceed with their divorce as Dane’s health declined.
The couple married in 2004 and, despite facing several challenges over the years—including a scandal involving a leaked tape—they welcomed two daughters together and remained committed to co-parenting even after their separation. With Gayheart’s support and their united front as a family, sources suggest they are focused on looking for normalcy and happiness despite Eric’s difficulties.
Dane’s confirmed work on Euphoria, alongside his friend Sharon Stone, indicates his determination to continue acting despite health restrictions. “I’m very hopeful,” he stated in a recent interview. “I don’t think this is the end of my story.” This perspective highlights not only his personal strength but also the support system around him, which remains unwavering.
As Dane navigates this tumultuous chapter, the support of family and friends encapsulates a shared goal of creating cherished memories, reinforcing the human spirit’s resilience even in trying circumstances.