Rebecca Gayheart's divorce petition cancellation and tribute to "best friend" Eric Dane followed by ALS diagnosis

Just one day before Eric Dane revealed he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), his estranged wife Rebecca Gayheart spoke about their strong bond, calling the actor her “best friend” at a public event.

“We are best of friends. We are really close,” the actress said on April 9 at a Los Angeles screening of The Carters: Hurts to Love You. “We are great co-parents. I think it’s important to not look at a relationship that ends as a failure.”

Reflecting on their marriage, Gayheart added, “It’s just a season. It wasn’t a failure. It was a huge success. We were married for, I mean, we are still married, but together for 15 years, and we had two beautiful kids so I think that’s a successful relationship.”

The next day, Dane confirmed his ALS diagnosis in a statement to PEOPLE: “I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter. I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week.”

Dane is due to resume filming for the HBO series on April 14. ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a degenerative disorder that impairs muscle function over time.

Gayheart filed for divorce from Dane in 2018, but in March 2025, she officially withdrew the petition. The couple married in 2004 and share two daughters: Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13.

Although Dane has recently been seen with Priya Jain, Gayheart and Dane remain committed co-parents. “We are doing our best to co-parent and maintain a family,” Gayheart previously said.