Eric Dane's friends have launched a GoFundMe for his daughters

Eric died just 10 months after he publicly shared his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells and causes loss of muscle control.

A message on the GoFundMe states: "It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Eric Dane after a hard-fought battle with ALS, leaving behind his devoted wife, Rebecca, and his two teenage daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the centre of his world.

"Following his diagnosis, Eric became a passionate spokesperson for the ALS community, using his voice and platform to advocate for fellow patients and to push for greater awareness. Even as his own health declined, he remained deeply committed to helping others facing the same devastating disease. As his illness progressed far more quickly than anyone could have imagined, Eric's friends have come together to create this GoFundMe to support his girls and their future needs.

"Any contribution, no matter the size, will help provide stability during this incredibly difficult time and in the future for Eric's wonderful daughters. Thank you."

Eric's friends put an initial target of $250,000 on the fundraiser and raised almost 50 per cent of the total in just a few hours.

Meanwhile, Dane used his final interview - which was aired after his death - to share a special message to his beloved daughters.

Speaking on the Netflix special Famous Last Words - which he recorded in November - he said: "Billie and Georgia, these words are for you. I tried. I stumbled sometimes, but I tried. Overall we had a blast, didn't we? I remember all the times we spent at the beach, the two of you, me and mom - in Santa Monica, Hawaii, Mexico. I see you now playing in the ocean for hours, my water babies. Those days, pun intended, were heaven."

Eric - who shared his daughters with estranged wife Rebecca Gayheart - went on to tell them "four things I've learned from this disease", including living in the present, the importance of falling in love - with a person and with a passion project, finding good friends and fighting with dignity.

He finished his message by saying: "You can face the end of your days. You can face hell with dignity. Fight, girls, and hold your heads high. Billie and Georgia, you are my heart. You are my everything. Good night. I love you. Those are my last words."