Friends and colleagues of the late actor Eric Dane have raised a significant amount of money for his family through a GoFundMe campaign following his tragic death. Among the most notable contributions was a large donation from filmmaker Sam Levinson and his wife, Ashley, who made the single biggest donation to the fund so far. Their generosity has helped the campaign quickly grow, drawing attention from fans and fellow entertainers alike as they continue to rally around Dane’s loved ones in a time of immense grief.
The GoFundMe was created by close friends of Dane shortly after his passing, with the primary goal of helping provide financial security for his two teenage daughters in the wake of a sudden and heartbreaking loss. The campaign emphasises that every contribution, regardless of size, plays a role in supporting the family and offering some stability at an incredibly difficult time.
Remembering Dane’s Legacy and Advocacy
Eric Dane had a long and varied career in television and film, but in the final chapter of his life he became particularly known for his openness about his battle with ALS, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The diagnosis was made public in 2025, and he spent his final months not only continuing his acting work but also advocating for awareness of the disease that ultimately claimed his life. Despite the challenges of ALS, Dane remained a passionate voice for others facing similar struggles, using his platform to shine a spotlight on the impact of the condition and to encourage greater understanding and research efforts. This commitment to helping others, even in his own declining health, was noted by fans and colleagues alike and has become an important part of how he is remembered.
Sam Levinson’s Heartfelt Gesture
Among those moved to offer support was Sam Levinson, the creator of the acclaimed series Euphoria, who worked closely with Dane when he appeared on the show as Cal Jacobs. Levinson and his wife Ashley donated $27,000 to the GoFundMe campaign, making them the largest individual contributors at this stage. In a public statement, Levinson expressed how deeply saddened he was by Dane’s passing and spoke about the honor of both knowing him personally and collaborating professionally. Levinson’s message reflected not just his admiration for Dane’s work but also the genuine friendship that developed between them over years in the industry. He spoke of Dane as someone who brought joy and dedication to his craft, and who leaves a profound impact on those who knew him.
A Community in Mourning
As the campaign continues to gather support, many within the entertainment world have shared memories and tributes to Dane’s kindness and talent. From retrospective social media posts celebrating his most memorable roles to heartfelt comments from co-stars and collaborators, the outpouring of affection highlights how widely he was respected. Fans have also played a part in driving donations, often referencing the way Dane chose to face his illness openly and with courage. His time on popular shows such as Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria introduced him to millions of viewers, and for many people his characters remain deeply meaningful even now.
What the Fund Will Support
The funds raised through the GoFundMe are intended to help cover both immediate and long-term needs for Dane’s daughters. This includes living expenses, schooling, future education costs, and other essentials that can provide some sense of security for the family after losing their father so suddenly. The campaign message underscores the importance of helping the girls feel supported as they grow up without their dad, and it invites people from all walks of life to contribute what they can.
A Legacy of Strength and Compassion
Eric Dane’s passing has undoubtedly left a hole in the hearts of those who knew him personally and professionally, but the response to the GoFundMe reflects the strong sense of community he built over decades in the industry. From major donations by close friends to thousands of smaller contributions from fans, the collective effort to support his family shows how deeply he impacted others. As the campaign moves forward, it stands as both a tribute to Dane’s life and a practical means of offering care and protection for his children — a legacy befitting someone who used his voice, both on and off the screen, to make a difference.
