Rebecca Gayheart reveals how her daughters with Eric Dane are doing following his death

Rebecca Gayheart is opening up about how her two daughters are navigating life without their dad, Eric Dane, seven months after his death.

The actress, 55, spoke exclusively with People at Step Up’s 2026 Annual Inspiration Awards on Friday, Sept. 25, at Los Angeles’ Skirball Cultural Center. The event celebrates mentorship and the women and girls who encourage others to chase their goals.

‘We’re Hanging In There’

During the event, Gayheart shared a candid update on daughters Billie Beatrice, 16, and Georgia Geraldine, 14, who are continuing to adjust to the loss of their father.

“You know, we’re hanging in there,” Gayheart tells People. “I think it’s definitely a challenging season, but we’re doing our best.”

Both girls are also navigating the major transition of being in high school, making this an especially emotional period for the family.

“The girls are both in high school — which is also a big transition under any circumstance — so I’m just staying close to my kids,” she adds.

Leaning On Family And Friends

As for how she gets through the harder days herself, Gayheart says staying connected to the people closest to her has made a difference.

“[I connect with] friends. My children. Being under the same roof with my kids and having them next to me, safe, always makes me feel better,” she says.

Gayheart adds that she also turns to certain loved ones when she needs to talk through her emotions.

“You know, there’s certain people I like to talk to get my feelings out, but really just — again — being connected to other human beings. That’s what gets me through,” she says.

Gayheart And Dane’s Relationship

Gayheart and Dane tied the knot in Las Vegas in 2004 after first meeting the year before. The former couple filed for divorce in 2018, but Gayheart later requested that the divorce be dismissed in March 2025, with both parties signing off on the paperwork.

© Jason LaVeris

Dane, best known for his roles on Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis to PEOPLE the following month. At the time, he said he was “grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”

Gayheart Helped Care For Dane During His Illness

Although Gayheart and Dane were no longer living together, she remained closely involved in his care after his diagnosis.

In a December 2025 essay for The Cut, Gayheart detailed how she took charge of his care team and navigated the complicated health insurance system to help make sure he received the treatment and support he needed.

Dane died on Feb. 19 at age 53, leaving behind Gayheart and their two daughters, who are now continuing to navigate life and grief while staying close as a family.