Rebecca Gayheart recently shared her journey of supporting her children in their relationship with her estranged husband, Eric Dane, who is battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). During a podcast episode of “Broad Ideas With Rachel Bilson & Olivia Allen,” Gayheart opened up about parenting amidst the challenges posed by Dane’s illness.
Gayheart, who married Dane in 2004 and has two daughters, Billie (15) and Georgia Geraldine (13), filed for divorce in 2018 but withdrew her filing in March 2025, shortly before Dane revealed his diagnosis. Since then, she has made it a priority for her children to maintain a strong bond with their father. She described the situation as “extremely tricky,” noting the complex feelings her children experience as they navigate their father’s condition in the public eye.
In trying to provide stability and support, Gayheart expressed the importance of demonstrating compassion. “I am definitely trying to show them that we show up for people, no matter what, and he is our family,” she explained. Despite their separation, she emphasizes showing up for their family with dignity and grace.
Gayheart acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, especially since the kids live with her full-time, and emphasized her commitment to modeling resilience for her daughters. “I’m trying to learn from it and role model for them how to go through something like this,” she said, as she reflects on her efforts to be there for her children during this challenging time.
She framed her experience as an opportunity for growth, hoping to instill in her daughters the lesson that life is a series of ups and downs. “One piece of this that I hope I’m passing to my kids is the idea that you can show up for someone and be there for them, but you also have to show up for yourself,” she added, highlighting the preciousness of each day and the unpredictability of life.
Gayheart emphasized her desire to facilitate opportunities for her children to spend time with Dane, ensuring that they won’t regret missed moments with their father. Dane, who has shared his own struggles with ALS, has credited Gayheart as a vital support system, noting their improved relationship since his diagnosis.
As he prepares for an upcoming role in “Brilliant Minds,” where his character’s storyline will reflect his own health challenges, Dane continues to prioritize his family during this difficult period. Gayheart’s approach to co-parenting with Dane showcases a commendable effort to foster a supportive environment for their children amid adversity.