Chyler Leigh Honors Late Co-Star Eric Dane

Chyler Leigh Honors Late Co-Star Eric Dane

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The family are mourning the loss of star

Chyler Leigh, who portrayed his love interest Dr. Lexie Grey on the hit medical series, has issued a heartbreaking tribute

In a statement shared with E!, Leigh described Dane as a man with a 'heart of gold' who cared deeply for his two daughters and his work.  

'The last 48 hours have been devastating,'  Leigh said. 'I never thought I would be using the term "had or was," but here we are. And I hate it.'

She went on to praise Eric's character, sense of humor, and intellect before remembering him as 'an amazing father' who 'loved his girls FIERCELY. Incredibly passionate about his work and the causes he kept close to his heart.'

'The Universe is undoubtedly holding Eric now,' she stressed, 'just as I will continue to do within my heart forever.' 

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Grey's Anatomy alum Chyler Leigh has paid tribute to her late co-star Eric Dane

Dane's death was announced on Thursday, less than a year after he revealed that he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. 

A special tribute is set to additionally be made to Dane in the upcoming episode of Grey's Anatomy that will air next week on February 26, per Deadline.

Tributes have been pouring in for Dane following his death at age 53 from the world of Grey's Anatomy and beyond.

Chyler played Dane's love interest, Dr. Lexie Grey

Dane's death was announced on Thursday, less than a year after he revealed that he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

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In 2006, Dane joined the show as Dr. Sloan but officially left during season 9 after his character died in a plane crash.

The award-winning actor is survived by his two teenage daughters, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13, and his wife, Rebecca Gayheart.

ALS is 'a nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord' and can 'cause loss of muscle control,' per Mayo Clinic.

Dane announced his diagnosis with the disease last year in April.

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