Eric Dane's On-Again, Off-Again Girlfriend Shares Heartfelt Tribute Following Actor's Passing
Janell Shirtcliff, the photographer and filmmaker who was in an on-again, off-again relationship with late actor Eric Dane, has paid an emotional tribute to the Grey's Anatomy star after his death earlier this week. Shirtcliff took to social media to share a collection of intimate photographs and videos from their three-year relationship, offering a glimpse into their time together.
Remembering a Life Cut Short by ALS
Eric Dane, aged 53, passed away on Friday after a brief but intense battle with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), known as Motor Neurone Disease in Australia. He had been diagnosed less than a year prior, making his rapid decline all the more poignant for his loved ones and fans worldwide.
The photos shared by Shirtcliff capture moments of joy and affection, including images of Dane kissing her on the forehead and shoulder, as well as a snapshot of him getting a tattoo on his left arm. A video also shows the couple singing together in a golf cart, highlighting their close bond despite the challenges they faced.
Family Ties and Unfinished Business
Dane is survived by his estranged wife, actor Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14. The couple had ended their 13-year marriage in 2018 but remained on amicable terms. Interestingly, Gayheart called off their divorce just one month before Dane publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis, underscoring the enduring connection between them.
In his final interview, recorded for the Netflix special Famous Last Words in November and aired posthumously, Dane shared a special message for Gayheart and their daughters. He expressed unwavering love for his wife, stating, "I will never, by the time anybody sees this, would have ever fallen in love with another woman as deeply as I fell in love with Rebecca."
A Father's Last Words to His Daughters
Dane also used the platform to send an emotional message to Billie and Georgia, reflecting on his life lessons from battling ALS. He emphasized living in the present, the importance of falling in love with people and passions, finding good friends, and fighting with dignity. "I hope I've demonstrated that you can face anything, you can face the end of your days, you can face hell with dignity," he said, concluding with, "Billie and Georgia, you are my heart. You are my everything. Good night. I love you. Those are my last words."
Community Support Through GoFundMe
Following Dane's passing, friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his daughters. The fundraiser describes Dane as a passionate advocate for the ALS community and aims to help with future needs for Billie and Georgia. Initially set at $US250,000 (approximately $A354,000), it quickly raised nearly half that amount in just a few hours. As of now, the campaign has reached almost $US230,000 of an increased goal of $US500,000, demonstrating widespread support from fans and the public.
This tribute not only honors Eric Dane's legacy as an actor but also highlights the personal struggles and connections that defined his final years, leaving a lasting impact on those he loved.
