AceShowbiz - Dax Shepard recently opened up about a heartfelt Alcoholics Anonymous meeting held in memory of his close friend, Eric Dane, following the actor’s death in February.

On the March 2 episode of his podcast, "Armchair Expert," Shepard, 51, described the gathering as a "very, very, very sweet meeting" that served as a tribute to Dane, who passed away at age 53 after battling ALS.

Although Shepard did not initially mention Dane by name during the episode, his cohost Monica Padman acknowledged the tribute, prompting Shepard to confirm it was "kind of in memory of our friend." He recalled that the meeting, usually composed entirely of men, featured an "awesome" woman who attended that night.

Shepard recounted the emotional atmosphere, saying the woman shared that she intended to "cry through my entire share, and I’m gonna cry for all of you." Shepard appreciated her openness, stating, "We were like, ‘Well, thank you. Someone needs to.’ That was really great."

The connection between Shepard and Dane runs deep. The actors became close friends after a tense encounter at an AA meeting years prior, which nearly erupted into a physical fight. Shepard recounted the incident during a June 2025 podcast episode, explaining that Dane, who was hosting their mini group at the time, threatened another attendee over a timer being reset repeatedly.

Shepard recalled, "In the middle of the meeting, he goes, ‘If you hit that timer again, I’m gonna f***ing throw you in that candle.’ I go, ‘That’s it, motherf***er, let’s go. Stand up, let’s go outside.’ I’m gonna beat the f*** out of him in Tom’s driveway. At an AA meeting, where we’re coming for healing and understanding."

In a June 2024 podcast, Eric Dane shared his perspective on the same event, explaining that someone he brought along was monopolizing the meeting time, leading to Shepard’s friend repeatedly resetting a timer. Dane’s and Shepard’s shared sponsor ultimately defused the conflict. This incident marked the beginning of their friendship, which grew stronger over shared interests like cars and recognizing their mutual struggles.

Dane publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. Nearly a year later, his family confirmed his death in a statement to Us Weekly, describing his final moments surrounded by loved ones including his wife and two daughters, Billie and Georgia.

The family’s statement read: "With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world."

They also highlighted Dane’s advocacy during his illness: "Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received."

The family requested privacy as they navigate their loss.

During the February 23 episode of "Armchair Expert," which was likely recorded before Dane’s death, Shepard mentioned a friend rapidly succumbing to ALS. Speaking with guest Sterling K. Brown, whose mother also suffers from ALS, Shepard described visiting his friend and sharing stories to bring moments of joy and laughter amidst the hardship.

That same day, the podcast honored Dane on social media by sharing a link to Dane’s episode of "Euphoria," calling him "talented and inspiring."

Eric Dane had previously spoken openly about his struggles with substance abuse during his time on "Grey’s Anatomy," where he portrayed Dr. Mark Sloan for eight seasons. His candor about his sobriety journey added layers of respect from peers and fans alike.

Dax Shepard continues to reflect on the profound bond they shared, underscored by their mutual commitment to recovery and understanding. Their friendship, marked by moments of conflict and deep connection, remains a testament to their resilience and compassion.

The touching AA meeting that honored Eric Dane highlights the enduring impact he had on those around him and the strength of communal support in the face of personal battles.