Eric Dane has had his final interview released as part of Netflix’s Famous Last Words series. The actor died this week after a lengthy battle with ALS.
Last October, Netflix debuted Famous Last Words, loosely inspired by a Danish television series called Det Sidste Ord (The Last Words). In the series, prominent figures give their final interview, with the understanding that it won’t be released until after their deaths. The series is created by Brad Falchuk.
The first episode featured the beloved ethologist and conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall, who had some profound things to say about the current state of the world.
Just like with that first interview, Dane’s was conducted in extreme discretion and under the agreement that it wouldn’t be aired until after his death. According to Netflix, only the interviewer and interviewee are present during the recording. The interviews are presented in their entirety, unedited, and feature multiple moments where the subject looks straight at the camera and addresses the audience directly.
Dane started his career in television in the 90s, appearing on shows like Saved by the Bell, The Wonder Years, and Roseanne. But by far his most well-known role was as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, a guest character that became so overwhelmingly popular that he was written into the show as a leading man. Dane’s most recent role was as Cal Jacobs on Euphoria.
Dane’s Famous Last Words goes into depth on his past emotional trauma, where he talks about losing his father and grandmother at a young age. He also directly addresses his two daughters.
“Eric and I were the same age when we discussed his life and legacy, so the conversation felt uniquely moving and personal,” says Falchuk. “There was no self-pity in Eric. He refused to complain. He was brave, soulful, charming, joyful, grateful, and hilarious — and when he flashed that smile, he was undeniably still a leading man. His final words at the end of the episode are truly beautiful. I will miss him.”
While certainly a bit morbid, these interviews are conducted with the subjects’ full approval. And presumably, there will be more coming at some point.
