The entertainment world mourns the loss of Eric Dane, the beloved actor known for his roles in “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria,” who passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2026, after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Just one day after his death, Netflix released a profoundly moving posthumous interview with Dane, part of the “Famous Last Words” documentary series, offering a final, intimate message to his daughters, Billie and Georgia. The interview, recorded in November 2025, provides a glimpse into Dane’s reflections on life, love, and the importance of living in the present moment.
The documentary series, originating in Denmark, features interviews with individuals who know they are facing a terminal illness, with the understanding that the footage will only be released after their passing. Brad Falchuk, the executive producer, explained the intention behind the project: to create a safe space for honest and unfiltered conversation, leaving a lasting legacy for those left behind. Dane’s interview is the second episode, following the release of primatologist Jane Goodall’s conversation last October, as reported by NBC News.
A Message of Presence and Resilience
In the deeply personal interview, Dane addressed his daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14, sharing wisdom gleaned from his experience with ALS. He spoke of cherished memories – family vacations in Malibu, Santa Monica, Hawaii, and Mexico – recalling joyful moments of his daughters playing in the ocean. He emphasized the importance of living fully in the present, a lesson he learned through his own health struggles. “The past holds only regret. The future is uncertain. You must live now,” he stated, urging his daughters to appreciate every moment. Dane’s words reflect a shift in perspective, acknowledging a past tendency to dwell on regrets and anxieties, and a newfound appreciation for the immediacy of life.
Beyond urging them to embrace the present, Dane encouraged his daughters to pursue passion and love. He spoke of his own lifelong love for acting, describing it as a source of strength and joy even during difficult times. He also stressed the importance of choosing friends wisely, surrounding themselves with people who offer unconditional support and encouragement. “Find your people and allow them to find you,” he advised, emphasizing the value of genuine connection and reciprocal relationships.
Facing Adversity with Dignity
Perhaps the most poignant message Dane imparted was the importance of fighting for what you believe in, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. He acknowledged the debilitating nature of ALS, stating that the disease was slowly taking over his body, but firmly declared that it would never claim his spirit. “Fight, girls, and hold your heads high,” he urged, embodying a spirit of resilience and determination. He likened himself to a cat with “nine lives,” emphasizing his ability to bounce back from adversity. As UPI reported, Dane’s final words were a powerful testament to facing life’s difficulties with honesty, integrity, and dignity.
Concluding his message, Dane expressed his unwavering love for his daughters, declaring them to be his heart and his everything. His final words, “Goodnight. I love you,” serve as a deeply moving and lasting legacy for Billie and Georgia, and a poignant reminder of the power of love and connection in the face of mortality.
The release of this interview comes after Dane publicly announced his ALS diagnosis in December 2025, and began writing a memoir about his life and career. He continued to work, appearing in the Prime Video drama series “Countdown” and guest starring on NBC’s “Brilliant Minds” although navigating the challenges of the disease. He is survived by his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and his two daughters.
As viewers reflect on Eric Dane’s final message, the “Famous Last Words” series continues to offer a unique and intimate platform for individuals to share their wisdom and leave a lasting impact on those they leave behind. The series plans to release further episodes, offering a continuing exploration of life, death, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about Eric Dane’s final interview and his battle with ALS. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you or someone you know is affected by ALS, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional.
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