Chyler Leigh is vulnerably opening up about the heartbreaking loss of Eric Dane.
The Hallmark star, beloved by fans for her role as Katherine “Kat” Landry on the hit series “The Way Home,” also starred opposite Dane on “Grey’s Anatomy” as Lexie Grey and Mark Sloan, one of the show’s most unforgettable and tragic couples. Months later, Leigh is now reflecting on how she felt immediately after hearing about Dane’s passing in February, his lasting memory, and the profound impact he had on her life on and off screen.
Leigh Opens Up About Her Reaction to Dane’s Passing
Getty“Eric had one of the kindest hearts,” Leigh said of her former co-star on the May 14 episode of the “You Might Know Her From” podcast, per Us Weekly. “We had a deep relationship, respect for one another and [he] was such a wonderful scene partner.”
“It was really special working with him,” Leigh continued. “We always were able to laugh even amid the most absurd or devastating circumstances.” She explained that she also got to know the actor “really well” outside of his “McSteamy” persona. “I will always look back fondly.”
Though Leigh admitted that it had “been a while” since she last connected with Dane prior to his passing, when she got the news, she “didn’t know how to comprehend it.” She said it didn’t set in until days later when she was flying back home to Nashville from Los Angeles, then it just suddenly “hit” her.
“I had to keep getting up and going to use the lavatory because I was just sobbing,” Leigh said. “I didn’t know it was going to hit me that hard and especially that fast. It was definitely a grief, and now when I see the reels [of his past work] it’s not like I’m over it but I’m able to see past the absolute devastation of it and be able to appreciate even more so those incredible moments that we had together.”
Dane Revealed His ALS Diagnosis 10 Months Prior to His Passing
GettyDane passed away on February 19, 2026 at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Dane revealed his diagnosis in April 2025.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” Dane shared with PEOPLE at the time. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”
The actor’s family confirmed the news of his passing with multiple news outlets, sharing an emotional statement that read:
“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 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. 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.”
Just after his passing, Chyler said in a touching statement to E! News that “Eric had a heart of gold.”
She continued, “His humor and, especially, his laugh was infectious. He was a deeply intelligent man who could carry a philosophical conversation for hours even while we were on set. He was an amazing father and loved his girls FIERCELY. Incredibly passionate about his work and the causes he kept close to his heart.”
“The Universe is undoubtedly holding Eric now,” Leigh said in her statement, “just as I will continue to do within my heart forever.”
