Rebecca Gayheart Discusses Family Support Amid Eric Dane’s ALS Diagnosis

LOS ANGELES, CA — Rebecca Gayheart is opening up about the challenges of co-parenting during a difficult time for her family. The actress discussed her evolving role as a parent amid her ex-husband Eric Dane‘s recent diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) during a podcast appearance on November 17, 2025.

Gayheart, who shares two teenage daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13, with Dane, said she is committed to ensuring their father’s presence in their lives. “Despite being separated for eight years, we show up for people no matter what, and he is our family,” she stated in the podcast. She emphasized the need for dignity and grace while navigating their family’s challenges.

The couple, who married in 2004, filed for divorce in 2018 but withdrew the filing in March 2025, shortly before Dane went public with his illness. Gayheart mentioned the complexity of the situation, particularly since their daughters live with her full-time.

“It’s been extremely tricky to figure out how to handle it all,” Gayheart explained. “The kids are having such complex feelings, especially when public perceptions do not align with reality.”

She stressed the importance of showing up for oneself while being there for others, particularly during difficult times. “Life is just moments, good and bad, strung together,” she noted, adding, “We need to treat today as a special day; this isn’t a dress rehearsal.”

Dane, in a previous interview, called Gayheart his “biggest champion” and shared that their relationship has improved as they prioritize their children. “We have managed to become better friends and better parents,” he stated.

Gayheart believes that although navigating Dane’s health challenges is painful, there is value in resilience. She hopes to model for her daughters the importance of being present and compassionate amid struggle. As they face this journey together, she remains hopeful for advancements in ALS treatment in the future.