"Dancing With the Stars" judge Carrie Ann Inaba shared a lengthy tribute to Heche, who was a contestant on the show in season 29, on her Instagram. She began by resharing a recent Instagram post from the actor. "This was a post by @AnneHeche a while back," Inaba wrote. "I remember seeing it and being so happy for her. She looks at peace with herself and the world around her. She seems hopeful and free."
"I've been thinking of her since her accident last week and like many of you, my heart is heavy…" she continued. "Anne was one of the stars on @dancingwiththestars that truly touched my heart. Her personal story was one that reached into my heart and squeezed it. I could feel the pain she felt, and I could also feel her resilient and courageous soul. And it was touching. I had no idea all that she had gone through in this lifetime and I felt a connection to her and the struggles she faced in life. Despite her trials and tribulations, she had a bright light when she came out on that stage to dance."
Inaba added, "Every time she performed, there was a sense of complete joy and a celebration of life. It was pure. And it was special.✨❤️ We had reached out a few times to do her podcast but we never followed through. 💔 I am so heart broken for her and for those who love her. It is a tragedy in the fullest sense of the word ... I just hope she can feel the outpouring of love. And I wish the best outcome for her.
Today I am reading that she is likely not to survive ... Anne, I just wanted to say I'm grateful to have had the chance to SEE you. You had a great impact on many of us not only with your talent, but also with your free spirit. Thank you for the unique being you are. I'm praying for you. And so are many others. I hope you can feel it.May God keep you and all those involved, in his loving embrace during these difficult times.💔🙏🏼"