Katherine Heigl Posts Emotional Tribute To Former Co-Star Eric Dane, ‘Here’s To Your Next Great Adventure’

Katherine Heigl has joined other “Grey’s Anatomy” stars in paying tribute to Eric Dane following his untimely death from ALS at the age of 53, less than a year after he was diagnosed.

As the news of his death circulated, many of Dane’s former co-stars have shared memories, condolences, and well wishes for his family.

Taking to Instagram, Katherine Heigl posted a heartfelt tribute to her former co-star, joining the likes of Patrick Dempsey and Shonda Rhimes.

“I debated this post for days,” Heigl’s post began. “I have never been comfortable grieving publicly. I share my tears, my stories and my memories with those I’m closest to and more times than not I share them only with the heavens alone. But that silence can often look like a lack of care which I could not abide here.”

The actress went on to mention Dane’s widow, Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia.

“Rebecca, Billie, Georgia… There is so little, if in fact anything, one can say about a tragic loss like yours,” her caption read. “All the “I’m sorries” and “my prayers are with you” ring a bit hollow in the midst of so much pain and grief.”

“So I will say the only thing that has ever brought me peace when I’ve lost someone I love,” Heigl continued. “It is Robert Frost’s poem ‘Nothing Gold Can Stay’ of which I have tattooed on my body in my parent’s handwriting so I will never forget that the moment of gold was worth it.”

Heigl included the poem in her caption, before adding a final message about her former co-star.

“I will never forget Eric’s gold and I will forever be grateful I got to bask in it for even a brief moment in time. Thank you for sharing him with us. God Speed my old friend…here’s to your next great adventure,” she wrote.

The day after Dane’s February 19 death, Patrick Dempsey appeared as a guest on "The Chris Evans Breakfast Show," on February 20. He shared that he woke up to the news that his friend and former co-star had sadly passed away, noting that it was difficult to put into words what he was feeling.

According to the actor, he was texting with Dane the week prior to his death, and some of their mutual friends visited him. During his final days, Dempsey described the difficulties Dane was having.

"He was bedridden and it was very hard for him to swallow, so the quality of his life was deteriorating so rapidly," Dempsey shared.

The “Grey’s Anatomy” star also shared happy memories of the late actor, including their working relationship on set.

Sharing that Dane was "such a joy to work with," Dempsey also said that Dane brought so much joy to the set of the long-running ABC medical drama.

"There was this wonderful mutual respect. He's wickedly intelligent, and I'm always going to remember those moments of fun that we had together and celebrate the joy that he did bring to people's lives," Dempsey added.

In an Instagram post, Shonda Rhimes remembered Dane fondly throughout his tenure on the Emmy-winning series.

“Eric Dane was a beloved member of the Shondaland and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ families,” Rhimes’ message began. “He was truly a gifted actor whose portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan left an indelible mark on the series and on audiences around the world.”

“We are grateful for the artistry, spirit, friendship and humanity he shared with us for so many years. Our hearts are with his family, loved ones, and all who were touched by his work,” she added.

According to Page Six, Johnny Depp quietly offered one of his Los Angeles homes to close friend Dane prior to his death.

"Eric [had] one less thing to worry about," an inside source told the outlet, explaining that Dane was essentially living rent-free in Depp's Sunset Strip property, and was told to "pay whatever he could or — couldn’t for rent."

The two actors, who connected through mutual friends years ago, remained close as Dane battled the progressive disease.

On Thursday, February 19, 2026, the actor’s family confirmed to PEOPLE magazine that the actor had passed away after announcing his ALS diagnosis in 2025.

"With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS," his family said in a statement. "He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center 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,” they continued. "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.”