Kate Walsh pays tribute to Eric Dane after he lost his battle with ALS

Perth-based actress Kate Walsh has released an emotional statement on social media following the death of her former co-star Eric Dane.

Dane, known for his roles on Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, died Friday at the age of 53 after battling ALS, an incurable neurodegenerative disease.

Walsh, who now calls Perth home, tearfully shared her sadness over Dane’s passing on Instagram early this morning.

“I cannot find the words to try to express my sadness regarding Eric’s passing,” he said.

“First and foremost I think of their daughters and Rebecca and keep them in my prayers and in my heart.”

The actress reflected on their first scene together; An elevator moment in the early days of Grey’s Anatomy.

“I literally remember my first scene with Eric…an elevator scene on Seattle Greys. I mean, a long time ago. I think it was his first scene on the show too, and he was nervous,” she said.

“He was so handsome and I thought ‘but can this guy act?’ I thought. – and of course he could, and he did, and the rest is history.”

Walsh described Dane as sensitive, intelligent and extremely supportive throughout their time working together.

“In the early days of Grey’s, like most TV shows, we spent more time with each other than anyone else, and so we kind of became a family, and Eric was a huge source of support and love,” she said.

Describing ALS as a ‘horrible disease’, Walsh urged his followers to support research efforts and encouraged them to look into Target ALS in Dane’s memory.

Dane is survived by his two daughters and his wife Rebecca

A Go Fund Me page was set up by friends of the Dane family to honor the father of two.

American filmmaker and actor Sam Levinson donated $27,000 along with his wife Ashley.

The fundraiser, which launched Saturday morning, has raised over $80,000 so far.