Chyler Leigh is remembering her former Grey’s Anatomy co-star Eric Dane following his tragic death.
“The last 48 hours have been devastating,” the actress told E! The news was announced in a statement two days after the star passed away at the age of 53 after a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). “I never thought I’d use the words ‘was or was,’ but this is what happened. And I hate it. Eric had a heart of gold. His humor and especially his laugh were contagious.”
Lee continued, “He was a very intelligent man who could carry on philosophical conversations for hours on set. He was a wonderful father and loved his daughters dearly. He was incredibly passionate about his work and his cause, which he took to heart.”
The “Way Home” star concluded: “The universe is definitely holding Eric in its arms right now, just as it will forever hold me in my heart.”
Dane played plastic surgeon Mark Sloan on the ABC medical drama from season 2 until the start of season 9.
Throughout the series’ run, Dane’s character had an on-and-off relationship with Lee’s Lexie Gray, who joined the show during the season 3 finale. The on-screen couple died in a tragic plane crash at the end of season eight.
Dane and Lee, 43, reunited for a brief cameo during Season 17 of Grey’s Anatomy in 2020.
Mark and Lexi end up visiting Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) in a dream while she is in a coma due to the coronavirus.
Reflecting on the ending of “Grey’s,” Lee told Us Weekly in 2024: “Like being crushed under the fuselage of a plane and then eaten by wolves? But think about it. What if I poop and Lexi turns into a tree? You know what I’m saying? Now I’m part of supplying oxygen to the world forever.”
All jokes aside, the actress said, “I’ve always been incredibly grateful for that character and that storyline.”
“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard from people who are going into the medical field, ‘I started like this and I was able to watch Lexi’s journey.’ … I appreciate the impact that has on the fans,” Lee continued.
Dane also reflected on his journey with the long-running series in a “Famous Last Words” interview that aired on Netflix hours after his death.
“I’m proud of[my career]. It all led me to where I am today,” Dane said in a heartbreaking sit-down. “There was a lot of experience there. Life experiences, personal things, professional things. When I tried to get really good at it and approached this craft with some effort and focus, I think I did a pretty good job.”
“Grey’s Anatomy” also helped the “Euphoria” star stay sober after announcing his ALS diagnosis in April 2025.
“I don’t like having too much time on my hands,” Dane elaborated. “I needed structure, and the show provided me with a lot of structure. When it was almost canceled due to the writers’ strike, I took a few months off and found my way back to drugs and alcohol. At the time, I had been sober for about nine years, so I knew better.”
Of course, many other “Grey’s Anatomy” stars paid tribute to the beloved father of two after news of his death broke.
Kate Walsh, who played Dr. Addison Montgomery, wrote on Instagram on Friday: “I’m at a loss for words to express my sadness over Eric’s passing.”
As Page Six previously reported, Dane’s family confirmed the news of the actor’s death on Thursday.
“Through his battle with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same battle,” their statement reads in part.
“He spent his final days surrounded by his dearest friends, his devoted wife (Rebecca Gayheart), and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered forever.”
