“Grey’s Anatomy” star Eric Dane passed away after a battle with ALS on Thursday, February 19. Shortly after his passing, friends of the late actor launched a GoFundMe fundraiser in an effort to raise money to support his family.
The news came just days after “Dawson’s Creek” star James Van Der Beek’s passing, after which a fundraiser was also launched.
Fans pushed back, questioning why Hollywood actors would need help with finances after seemingly making millions throughout their careers.
GoFundMe Launched for Eric Dane’s Family
A GoFundMe was launched “In Honor of Eric Dane,” with a goal for $500,000.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Eric Dane after a hard-fought battle with ALS, leaving behind his devoted wife, Rebecca, and his two teenage daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world,” the fundraiser’s admin shared.
“Following his diagnosis, Eric became a passionate spokesperson for the ALS community, using his voice and platform to advocate for fellow patients and to push for greater awareness,” the statement continued. “Even as his own health declined, he remained deeply committed to helping others facing the same devastating disease. As his illness progressed far more quickly than anyone could have imagined, Eric’s friends have come together to create this GoFundMe to support his girls and their future needs.”
As of Monday, February 23, the fundraiser has raised more than $400,000 from nearly 4,000 donors.
Hailey Bieber donated $20,000, while “Eurphoria” creator Sam Levinson offered $27,000, and an anonymous donor shared $50,000. Brad Falchuk and Randall Emmmett each gave $10,000, and Disney exec Dana Walden donated $5,000.
Eric Dane Needed Financial Help
Shortly after the campaign was launched, the fundraiser was placed under review, which caused confusion among fans.
GoFundMe previously clarified that the pause was part of its routine review process.
“Our Trust and Safety team is still looking into this GoFundMe and has reached out to the organiser to gather additional information,” the company told Rolling Stone on Sunday, February 22. “All funds are being safely held by our payment processors during this review process. We can follow up as soon as there is an update available.”
After the campaign was relaunched, TMZ reported on Monday, February 23, that Dane “faced substantial medical bills during his battle with ALS.” The funds raised through GoFundMe will go to help his daughters, Billie and Georgia—whom he shared with wife Rebecca Gayheart.
