Anne Heche has sadly died.
The actress, best known for her roles in the soap opera Another World as well as films like Donnie Brasco, Psycho, and Six Days, Seven Nights, passed away a week after a car crash on August 5 left her in a coma. She was 53.
Anne had been hospitalized after the car she was driving crashed into a home in the Mar vista area of Los Angeles. The vehicle caught on fire, and firefighters fought the flames for 64 minutes until Anne could be putted from the wreckage.
On Thursday night (August 11), her rep released a statement revealing that she was not expected to survive and will eventually be taken off life support.
At 11am on Friday (August 12), a rep said:
“She was declared brain dead last night but has been kept on life support for organ donation. Her heart is still beating.”
While her heart is still beating, Anne is brain dead, which is the definition of death according to California law. She is kept on life support because doctors are determining if her organs are viable, as she was an organ donor.
A rep for the late actress said in a statement:
“Today we lost a bright light, a kind and most joyful soul, a loving mother, and a loyal friend.
Anne will be deeply missed but she lives on through her beautiful sons, her iconic body of work, and her passionate advocacy. Her bravery for always standing in her truth, spreading her message of love and acceptance, will continue to have a lasting impact.”
Anne leaves behind two children, Homer, 20, and Atlas, 13.
Her son Homer released a statement:
“My brother Atlas and I lost our mom. After six days of almost unbelievable emotional swings, I am left with a deep, wordless sadness.
Hopefully my mom is free from pain and beginning to explore what I like to imagine as her eternal freedom. Over those six days, thousands of friends, family, and fans made their hearts known to me. I am grateful for their love, as I am for the support of my Dad, Coley, and my stepmom Alexi, who continue to be my rock during this time.
Rest In Peace Mom, I love you.”
Her ex, James Tupper, who is the father of her younger son Atlas, posted a tribute for the actress, writing a simple, emotional message:
“Love you forever.”
Our thoughts are with Anne’s loved ones during this difficult time.
