Eric Dane ALS Diagnosis Unites Family as Rebecca Gayheart Navigates “Super Complicated” Relationship

Rebecca Gayheart has spoken publicly about her family’s challenging new chapter. Her estranged husband, actor Eric Dane, was diagnosed with ALS in 2025. The couple is now navigating his illness while focusing on their two teenage daughters.

Gayheart confirmed they have been separated for eight years. She filed for divorce in 2018 but dismissed the petition earlier this year. According to People, Dane publicly acknowledged his diagnosis just weeks after the divorce was dismissed.

Gayheart Prioritizes Daughters and a United Front

Gayheart recently appeared on the “Broad Ideas” podcast. She explained her primary focus is teaching her daughters how to support family. “I am definitely trying to show them that we show up for people no matter what,” she said.

She described their living situation as clear. Their daughters “live with me 100% of the time.” Despite the separation, she emphasizes that Dane is their father and part of their family.

Helping their children process the diagnosis is her biggest challenge. Gayheart admitted she does not know if she is handling it perfectly. She is simply trying to show up for them with grace and dignity.

A Humbling Experience and a Shift in Family Dynamics

The situation is fostering personal growth for Gayheart. She called the entire experience “very humbling.” She hopes to teach her children about showing up for others while also caring for themselves.

In a previous statement to People, she acknowledged her daughters are “really suffering.” She said she cannot yet find a positive aspect in the diagnosis. The family is still adjusting to the difficult new reality.

Despite the pain, the dynamic between her and Dane has shifted. “We are closer, but we don’t like the reason why,” she told People. She affirmed that Dane will always be her family, regardless of their marital status.

Dane Leans on Gayheart as His Biggest Champion

Eric Dane has also been open about the support he receives. In a June interview with Diane Sawyer, he credited Gayheart as his main source of strength. He called her “my biggest champion.”

He revealed they speak on the phone every day. Their shared focus has helped them become “better friends and better parents.” Dane explicitly stated that he leans on her for support through his health battle.

The couple continues to present a united front for their family. They are facing a life-altering diagnosis together, proving that family bonds can transcend traditional relationship labels.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Eric Dane’s illness?

Eric Dane was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2025. He publicly shared his diagnosis in an interview with People magazine.

Are Rebecca Gayheart and Eric Dane still married?

They have been legally separated for eight years. Gayheart filed for divorce in 2018 but dismissed the petition in March 2025, before Dane’s diagnosis was announced.

How many children do Rebecca Gayheart and Eric Dane have?

The couple share two daughters. Their children are Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13, who live full-time with Gayheart.

How has the diagnosis affected their relationship?

Both have stated they have become closer and communicate daily. Gayheart describes their relationship as a complicated but supportive family unit focused on co-parenting.

What did Eric Dane say about Rebecca Gayheart’s support?

Dane told Diane Sawyer that Gayheart is his “biggest champion.” He said he leans on her and they talk every day as they navigate his health challenges.