Hollywood continues to mourn the death of Eric Dane, as Chyler Leigh joins in to reflect on her Grey’s Anatomy onscreen love interest.

Leigh plays Lexie Grey on the ABC medical drama from 2007 to ’12 opposite to Dane’s character as Dr. Mark Sloan. Dane passed away on Thursday, February 19, at the age of 53, after being diagnosed with ALS last year.

In a recent statement shared with E! News, Leigh stated, “The last 48 hours have been devastating. I never thought I would be using the term ‘had or was,’ but here we are. And I hate it.”

Leigh added that Dane “had a heart of gold,” speaking highly of his humor and referring to his laugh as “infectious.”

“He was a deeply intelligent man who could carry a philosophical conversation for hours even while we were on set,” she continued. “He was an amazing father and loved his girls FIERCELY. Incredibly passionate about his work and the causes he kept close to his heart.”

“The Universe is undoubtedly holding Eric now, just as I will continue to do within my heart forever,” Leigh concluded.

Dane first appeared as a guest star on Grey’s Anatomy in Season 2 (2006) and was promoted to series regular the next season, portraying the fan-favourite Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan.

His character’s story arc included a romance with Lexie, ending tragically when both died in the Season 8 plane crash finale.