Katherine Heigl Remembers ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Costar Eric Dane: ‘I Will Never Forget Eric’s Gold’

Rolling Stone

by Emily Zemler

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Katherine Heigl paid a heartfelt tribute to her *Grey’s Anatomy* co-star Eric Dane on Instagram following his passing due to ALS. In her post, Heigl shared how she struggled with publicly expressing grief but felt compelled to speak out to avoid appearing indifferent. She quoted Robert Frost’s poem “Nothing Gold Can Stay,” which holds deep personal significance for her, and reflected on the brief yet impactful time she spent with Dane. Her message highlighted the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones, emphasizing that even fleeting joys are invaluable. Eric Dane, known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan, fought ALS courageously until his death at 53. Heigl’s tribute was one of many from former cast members, including Patrick Dempsey and Kate Walsh, who shared their memories of working with Dane. Dempsey recalled visiting Dane during his final days, noting how rapidly his health declined. Shonda Rhimes, the show’s creator, praised Dane for his artistic contributions and the impact he made on both the series and its audience. Dane’s battle with ALS brought attention to the disease, inspiring others to value life and cherish every moment. His legacy extends beyond *Grey’s Anatomy*, as he became an advocate for awareness during his illness. Heigl’s tribute, along with those from other cast members, underscores the profound influence Dane had on both his co-workers and fans, highlighting the importance of gratitude and remembrance in the face of loss.

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Originally published on Rolling Stone on 2/23/2026