Eric Dane'S Emotional Farewell: Girlfriend Shares Heartfelt Moments After His Passing

Heartfelt Tribute from Janell Shirtcliff

Eric Dane's girlfriend, Janell Shirtcliff, has left fans teary-eyed with a heartfelt tribute to the late actor. The pair, who stepped into the limelight together during Dane's battle with motor neurone disease, shared a poignant red carpet moment in June 2025. This event marked Dane's final public appearance before his untimely passing on Friday (AEDT).

Janell, a talented photographer and director, took to Instagram to share a series of intimate photos and videos, capturing tender moments from their time together. Among these were snapshots of Eric looking frail yet content, showcasing the couple's deep bond during his fight with ALS.

"With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS," the official statement read, highlighting his advocacy for ALS awareness and research.

Unveiling a Complex Love Story

While Janell's tribute has stirred emotions, it also unveiled a complex chapter in Dane's life. At the time of their red carpet debut, Priya Jain claimed she was unaware of her breakup with Dane, adding a layer of intrigue to the actor's personal life.

Despite these romantic twists, Dane's legacy remains untarnished. His marriage to actress Rebecca Gayheart, which began in 2004 and resulted in two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, was put on hold after his diagnosis. The couple's separation in 2018 was overshadowed by their commitment to family amidst such challenging times.

A Legacy of Courage and Advocacy

Eric's passing has prompted an outpouring of love and admiration from Hollywood. His Grey's Anatomy co-star, Kate Walsh, reminisced about their first scene together, praising Dane's "sensitivity and vulnerability" on and off the screen. "Eric was such a source of support and love," Walsh shared in a moving Instagram post.

Dane's passionate advocacy for ALS awareness did not go unnoticed. Friends have set up a GoFundMe campaign to support his daughters, honoring his mission to find a cure for the disease. "Any contribution, no matter the size, will help provide stability during this incredibly difficult time," the campaign states. As of today, the fund has amassed $212,000 towards its $250,000 goal.

In a final message to his daughters, Dane expressed his unwavering love and pride, leaving them with words of comfort: "Billie and Georgia, you are my heart. You are my everything. Good night. I love you. Those are my last words."