Kate Walsh calls out 'misconception' about 'rich actors' as she defends crowdfunding page set up for co-star Eric Dane

Kate Walsh has defended a crowd fundraising page that was set up in the wake of her Grey's Anatomy co-star Eric Dane's death.

The 58-year-old American actress, who is now based in Australia, said there is a "misconception that actors are rich".

American star Dane died last week at the age of 53, after a battle with motor neurone disease.

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"A lot of people (I know, in a time when we ask so much of everyone to help with all the things) are under the misconception that actors are rich," she wrote on Instagram in a since-expired Story.

"But when they go through these debilitating illnesses they go through all their funds. Thank you for even considering to help ❤️"

At the time of publishing, his crowd fundraising page has reached more than $US419,000, or approximately $593,000.

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The page said it was created to help support the two daughters he leaves behind, who he shared with ex Rebecca Gayheart.

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

Crowdfunding pages for late celebrities have come under scrutiny recently, with one also being set up after Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek's death following a cancer battle.

Some fans have questioned why they would need to send money to the stars' families, if they choose to contribute, because of their lucrative careers in the spotlight.

While many have donated, the pages have also attracted backlash and criticism online.

Dane's page was reportedly verified by GoFundMe amid the donations.

Walsh previously shared a moving tribute on Instagram to her late co-star, alongside pictures of the pair together.

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"I'm at a loss for words to try to express the sadness around Eric's passing," she wrote.

"ALS is an awful disease & too many people have lost loved ones to it. I know it was Eric's mission to help find a cure. I would encourage you to look into @targetals in his memory. ?️."

A statement confirming Dane's death was shared with People last week, the news coming 10 months after he went public with his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), known as motor neurone disease in Australia.

"With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS," it read in part.

"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."

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