Johnny Depp reportedly let Eric Dane live rent free amid ALS battle

Johnny Depp reportedly opened his home to Eric Dane in the months before the Grey’s Anatomy star’s death, allowing him to live rent free as he battled amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Dane passed away on Thursday at the age of 53, around 10 months after publicly revealing his ALS diagnosis. According to a source quoted by Page Six, Depp offered Dane the use of one of his properties above the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles to help ease financial pressures during his health decline.

The source claimed Depp told Dane to “pay whatever he could or couldn’t for rent,” adding that the Pirates of the Caribbean actor wanted him to have “one less thing to worry about” while undergoing treatment and managing the progression of the disease. Depp has not publicly commented on the report.

Dane first shared his ALS diagnosis in April 2025, explaining that he had initially noticed weakness in his right hand and assumed it was fatigue. Within months, he had lost use of his right arm as symptoms progressed rapidly. In public appearances and interviews, he described ALS as “something so horrible” but remained committed to advocacy and raising awareness.

Best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy and for starring in Euphoria, Dane continued to work and speak out about the disease even as his condition worsened. He appeared on panels supporting ALS research initiatives and was later honoured by The ALS Network as its 2025 Advocate of the Year.

In a statement following his death, his family said he spent his final days surrounded by loved ones, including his wife Rebecca Gayheart and their two daughters. They described him as a devoted father and passionate advocate who hoped his openness would help others facing the same diagnosis.

While neither Dane nor Depp publicly discussed the living arrangement, the reported gesture has sparked conversation online about solidarity and quiet support within Hollywood during times of crisis.