Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane’s girlfriend Janell Shirtcliff has shared an emotional Instagram tribute to the late actor following his death from ALS, aged 53
Eric Dane’s girlfriend, Janell Shirtcliff, has shared a moving tribute following his death. The Grey’s Anatomy star – who remained legally married to actress Rebecca Gayhart, 54, throughout his four-year relationship with the 42-year-old photographer – died on Thursday aged 53, just 10 months after publicly revealing his amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis.
On Saturday morning, Janell – who made her red carpet debut with Eric at the Countdown premiere in Los Angeles on 18 June 2025 – shared a collection of photographs on her Instagram Stories capturing cherished moments together with the Charmed actor.
Among the images were two showing Eric – whose progressive neurodegenerative condition affects nerve cells and leads to loss of muscle control – kissing Janell.
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Also included was an affectionate selfie of the couple smiling, alongside footage of them singing together whilst driving across rugged terrain with dramatic cliffs in the background.
The tribute also featured a photograph of a cheerful-looking Eric – famously known for his portrayal of Dr Mark Sloan in Grey’s Anatomy – apparently getting a tattoo.
Janell’s heartfelt post for her partner – who wed Rebecca in 2004, before she filed for divorce 14 years later – arrived a day after friends of the Euphoria actor set up a GoFundMe crowdfunding page for his and Rebecca’s daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14.
A statement on the GoFundMe page reads: “It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Eric Dane after a hard-fought battle with ALS, leaving behind his devoted wife, Rebecca, and his two teenage daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the centre of his world.
“Following his diagnosis, Eric became a passionate spokesperson for the ALS community, using his voice and platform to advocate for fellow patients and to push for greater awareness.
“Even as his own health declined, he remained deeply committed to helping others facing the same devastating disease. As his illness progressed far more quickly than anyone could have imagined, Eric’s friends have come together to create this GoFundMe to support his girls and their future needs.
“Any contribution, no matter the size, will help provide stability during this incredibly difficult time and in the future for Eric’s wonderful daughters. Thank you.”
Close friends of Eric – whose divorce from Rebecca was halted in March 2025 as she wanted to demonstrate to Billie and Georgia the importance of standing by family – established the fundraiser with an initial goal of $250,000, achieving nearly half that amount within hours.
The family of the Marley and Me star – whom Rebecca supported throughout his ALS battle – confirmed his passing on Thursday. Speaking to People, they said: “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, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the centre of his world.
“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.”
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