James Van Der Beek’s death at 48 has prompted an outpouring of tributes from family, friends and fans after the news was announced Wednesday.
The Dawson’s Creek actor’s death comes after he revealed in November 2024 that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children together. Kimberly wrote in a tribute on Instagram: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.
“There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Fellow celebrities including Jennifer Garner, Lin Manuel Miranda shared tributes to van Der Beek, including his Dawson’s Creek costar Busy Phillips, who described him as “one in a billion.”
“My heart is deeply hurting for all of us today…every person who knew James and loved him, anyone who loved his work or had the pleasure of meeting him, all of his dear friends and community that surrounded him as he battled this illness,” Phillips wrote.
Read MoreGoodbye, Dawson: James Van Der Beek was a generation’s soulmate
James Van Der Beek death: Dawson’s Creek actor dies aged 48
James Van Der Beek shares hopes for the spring in final video before his death
KEY POINTS
- James Van Der Beek death: Dawson’s Creek actor dies aged 48
- Goodbye, Dawson: James Van Der Beek was a generation’s soulmate
- Family launches GoFundMe
- What to know about colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek had reportedly been working on a memoir before his death
07:45 , Shahana YasminJames Van Der Beek had been quietly writing a memoir in the months before his death, according to Deadline.
The Dawson's Creek actor was working on the book between filming commitments, sources told the outlet.
It is not known how much of the manuscript had been completed, nor whether there are plans for the memoir to be published posthumously.
James Van Der Beek shares spring hopes in final video
07:30 , Shahana YasminReese Witherspoon says she is ‘devastated’ by James Van Der Beek’s death
07:15 , Shahana YasminReese Witherspoon has said she is “devastated” by the news of James Van Der Beek’s death.
Posting on Instagram Stories, the actor and producer wrote: “What an extraordinary, talented man who also showed great kindness and grace in every action. Praying all the angels watch over his family during this difficult time.”
Van Der Beek had recently filmed a recurring role in Elle, a television prequel to Legally Blonde, the 2001 film in which Witherspoon starred as Elle Woods. The new series is produced by Witherspoon’s company, Hello Sunshine.
In Elle, Van Der Beek plays Dean Wilson, a local school superintendent who is also running for mayor.
James Van Der Beek to appear in two forthcoming releases
07:00 , Shahana YasminJames Van Der Beek completed work on two projects that are due for release in the coming months.
The actor had a recurring role in Elle, a forthcoming Amazon Prime Video series set to be released on 1 July. A prequel to Legally Blonde, the show follows a teenage Elle Woods, played by Lexi Minetree, and is created by Laura Kittrell. Van Der Beek plays Dean Wilson, a mayoral candidate and school district superintendent in the city.
He also appears in the feature film The Gates, which is scheduled for release in select US cinemas on 13 March through Lionsgate Premiere.
Paul Walter Hauser says he will continue raising money for Van Der Beek’s family
06:45 , Shahana YasminActor Paul Walter Hauser has said he will continue fundraising to support James Van Der Beek’s family following the actor’s death.
Hauser had launched a Cameo campaign in January after learning that Van Der Beek was selling memorabilia from projects including Varsity Blues and Dawson’s Creek to help cover colorectal cancer treatment costs.
An update he shared on his Instagram revealed he had managed to raise another $14,000 for Van Der Beek’s treatment.
After news of Van Der Beek’s death, Hauser pledged to continue his support for “one of the good guys”, writing: “Love you, James. The Van Der Beeks will be in our daily prayers and we’ll be drumming up some money to support your beautiful family.”
Van Der Beek had announced in 2024 that he had been privately dealing with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
Roger Avary says James Van Der Beek was a ‘pillar of strength’
06:30 , Shahana YasminDirector and screenwriter Roger Avary has paid tribute to James Van Der Beek, with whom he worked on the 2002 film The Rules of Attraction.
In a statement on X, Avary described Van Der Beek as a “dear friend” and “a pillar of strength to me and my family during the hardest of times”.
The pair collaborated on the adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’s novel, in which Van Der Beek played the lead role of Sean Bateman.
“I knew he was fighting a terrible battle with courage and compassion, and I’m blessed that we had just recently had a very philosophical and existential phone conversation,” Avary wrote.
I’ve today learned that my dear friend James Van Der Beek, with whom I worked with on The Rules of Attraction, who has been a pillar of strength to me and my family during the hardest of times, passed away last night. I knew he was fighting a terrible battle with courage and…
— Roger Avary (@AVARY) February 11, 2026
“I have never known anyone else quite like him, and rarely felt so close a working connection, and my heart is broken at the loss, and my thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children.”
Stacy Keibler says time with James Van Der Beek in final days was “a true gift”
06:15 , Shahana YasminFormer WWE star Stacy Keibler has said she spent James Van Der Beek’s final days with him, describing the time as “a true gift from God”.
In an Instagram post, she wrote: “When you know time is sacred, you don’t waste a single breath. You don’t rush. You don’t scroll. You don’t worry about tomorrow. You sit. You listen. You hold hands. You watch the sky change colors and you let it change you too.”
Keibler described Van Der Beek as “an incredible husband” and “an extraordinary dad”, praising the way he showed up for his wife, Kimberly, and their children.
“You have given this world so many gifts,” she wrote, adding that she would think of him “every time I watch a sunset”.
Alfonso Ribeiro says he is ‘so broken’ after James Van Der Beek’s death
06:00 , Shahana YasminAlfonso Ribeiro, a longtime close friend and godfather to James Van Der Beek’s daughter Gwendolyn, has said he is “so broken right now” following the actor’s death.
In an Instagram post, Ribeiro described Van Der Beek as his “true friend, brother, and life guide”.
“I was with him through this horrible journey to beat cancer. His family and friends went on this roller coaster ride. The highs when it looked like he had it beat to the breaking lows of it coming back. I’ve learned so much from James,” Ribeiro wrote.
Ribeiro added that he would always be there for Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly’s children and described his role as Gwen’s “Goddie daddy” as “one of the most important roles” of his life.
“Being able to say goodbye this weekend will always live with me. RIP my brother,” he wrote.
Erin Fetherston says James Van Der Beek was ‘Uncle James’ to her family
05:45 , Shahana YasminDesigner Erin Fetherston has described James Van Der Beek as “Uncle James” in a message shared after his death.
In an Instagram post, she wrote that although he was known around the world, to her family, he was “Uncle James”.
“Thank you for your friendship. For always showing up. For being the one who would go the extra mile,” she wrote.
Fetherston talked about major milestones in her life, both good and bad, and how the actor was always there for her.
“What an honor it was to have a seat at your table and to call you a best friend,” she wrote, adding that she would “shower your beautiful family with love and remember to keep dancing in your honor”.
Fundraiser for James Van Der Beek’s widow Kimberly passes $1m after family reveals financial toll of cancer treatment
05:30 , Shahana YasminJames Van Der Beek’s wife Kimberly has asked fans to donate to a fundraiser for the family after revealing that the Dawson’s Creek star’s cancer treatment has taken a huge financial toll on the family.
Friends of the late actor set up the GoFundMe shortly after news of Van Der Beek’s death broke. The fundraiser hit its initial target of goal of $500,000 within four hours and has now passed $1m.
“James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,” the fundraiser reads.
“Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care.”
The money raised is meant to cover “essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education”.
Fundraiser for James Van Der Beek’s widow Kimberly passes $1m
James Van Der Beek’s final Instagram post paid tribute to his daughter and father
05:15 , Shahana YasminJames Van Der Beek’s final Instagram post was a tribute to his 12-year-old daughter, Annabel, and his father, who share a birthday.
In the post, from January, the 48-year-old actor wrote: “My father and my daughter share a birthday today. At first, I thought that was all they shared – they seemed so different to me.
He continued: “But as the two of you have evolved, and let more of who you are shine through, I can recognize the same open, warm, loving, gentle heart.
“In this crazy world, it’s a wonder to me that you’ve managed to stay so open, so tender, and so genuinely good. You are marvels, and I’m so insanely grateful to have you in my life.”
Goodbye, Dawson: James Van Der Beek was a generation’s soulmate
05:00 , Shahana YasminJames Van Der Beek was just 20 years old when he began filming Dawson’s Creek in 1997 and still just about able to pass for the 15-year-old title character of the much-loved teen drama.
With his golden hair and expressive eyes, Van Der Beek made an immediate impression and it wasn’t long before fans across the world were smitten. Dawson was the poetic, sensitive heart of the show, and when it came to an end six seasons later in 2003, viewers were heartbroken. In the final episode, Dawson’s younger sister Lilly asked him what a soulmate is. “It’s like a best friend, but more,” replies Dawson. “A soulmate is someone you carry with you forever.”
Goodbye, Dawson: James Van Der Beek was a generation’s soulmate
Kesha remembers James Van Der Beek from ‘Blow’ music video
04:45 , Shahana YasminKesha has paid tribute to James Van Der Beek after news of the actor’s death.
She posted two throwback pictures with the actor on her Instagram Stories, taken on a red carpet shortly after the release of their “Blow” music video.
In one image, Van Der Beek points playfully at her; in another, the pair embrace.
The music video for Kesha’s 2011 single Blow saw Van Der Beek cast as her mischievous opponent.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
04:30 , Mike BediganJames Van Der Beek announced that he had been diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer in November 2024, just over year before his death.
According to the American Cancer Society, Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum.
These cancers can also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are often grouped together because they have many features in common.
Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States.
In pictures: The star of Dawson's Creek
04:10 , Mike Bedigan James Van Der Beek remained 'optimistic' after revealing cancer diagnosis
03:50 , Mike BediganJames Van Der Beek remained optimistic after revealing his colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024.
"I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he told People at the time.
“There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”
Video: James Ven Der Beek dies at age 48
03:30 , Mike BediganThe Van Der Beeks' fortuitous meeting that led to their happy marriage
03:10 , Mike BediganVan Der Beek met his wife Kimberly during a chance encounter while he was telling his friend about his need to find a “soulmate.”
The actor married his first wife, Heather McComb, in 2003, before filing for divorce in 2009.
Later, during a spiritual trip to Israel, Van Der Beek said he had a “realisation” that he needed to find his “soulmate” to start a family. When he shared the revelation with a friend, his soon-to-be wife, Kimberley Brook, interrupted the discussion to ask the friend a question.
“I was annoyed. Who the hell was stepping all over my moment?” he recalled later. The pair began dating within weeks, and married a year later in a ceremony in Tel Aviv in 2010.
Reese Witherspoon sends condolences to Van Der Beek family
03:00 , Mike BediganAcademy Award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon added her condolences to those sent to the Van Der Beek family.
“Sending all my angels to help carry him home... you and your beautiful family are in my heart,” she wrote in response to Kimberly Van Der Beek’s post announcing the actor’s death.
James Van Der Beek 'never wanted to be an actor'
02:50 , Mike BediganBorn in Cheshire, Connecticut, on 8 March 1977, James Van Der Beek “never wanted to be an actor” and instead thought he’d be an athlete.
But after getting a concussion aged 13, he was forced to cut his training short and took up drama instead.
He started acting aged 13 and played Reuben in his school’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat and then Danny Zuko in Grease.
Precocious in his determination, he insisted that his mother, Belinda, take him to New York to secure an agent aged 15.
He auditioned for Dawson’s Creek in 1997 and dropped out of Drew University once he secured the lead as Dawson Leery. The show was picked up by the WB Network and launched the careers of Van Der Beek and his co-stars Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams.
Donations to the Van Der Beek family almost hits $850k
02:45 , Mike BediganDonations to a GoFundMe page set up to help James Van Der Beek’s family has almost reached $850,000.
The page was set up Wednesday morning following the announcement of his death and by 9 p.m. it had already raised around $750,000.
It jumped up by around $100,000 in under an hour.
A family friend launched the fundraiser to support Kimberly and their six kids. James was raising money for his cancer treatment before his death by auctioning off his memorabilia.
James Van Der Beek turned down big roles that went to Ryan Reynolds and Bradley Cooper
02:30 , Mike BediganJames Van Der Beek once admitted that admitted that after Dawson’s Creek, he had been too cautious and turned down roles that went to other huge stars.
Speaking to Vanity Fair he said he had turned down a role in The Amityville Horror, which went to Ryan Reynolds, and another in Wedding Crashers, which went to Bradley Cooper.
“That’s actually one that I kick myself over as well,” he told the outlet about Cooper’s role. “I mean, everything works out, and I’m happy with where I’m at...”
Paul Walter Hauser thanks Van Der Beek for being 'one of the good guys'
02:10 , Mike BediganPaul Walter Hauser thanked James Van Der Beek for “being one of the good guys,” after raising more than $14,000 for his fellow actor’s cancer treatment.
“Love you, James,”Hauser captioned a screenshot with the money he had raised through the celebrity video message platform.
“I know you’re in Heaven being pampered with love. The Van Der Beeks will be in our daily prayers and we’ll be drumming up some money to support your beautiful family. Thanks for the body of work and for being one of the good guy.”
Hauser first announced his plan to help after Van Der Beek said in November he was auctioning memorabilia from Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues, saying it “didn’t sit well” with him.
“I am an actor and father of 3 children, and I want them inheriting my trinkets/wardrobe/memorabilia someday. I wouldn’t want to auction off a Stingray shirt or Marvel script to make ends meet for treatment,” Hauser wrote.
Donations for the Van Der Beek family almost at $750k
01:50 , Mike BediganDonations to a GoFundMe page set up to help James Van Der Beek’s family has almost reached $750,000.
The page was set up Wednesday morning following the announcement of his death and by 5.30 p.m. it had already raised over $300,000.
A family friend launched the fundraiser to support Kimberly and their six kids. James was raising money for his cancer treatment before his death by auctioning off his memorabilia.
Goodbye, Dawson: James Van Der Beek was a generation’s soulmate
01:30 , Kevin PerryJames Van Der Beek was just 20 years old when he began filming Dawson’s Creek in 1997 and still just about able to pass for the 15-year-old title character of the much-loved teen drama.
With his golden hair and expressive eyes, Van Der Beek made an immediate impression and it wasn’t long before fans across the world were smitten. Dawson was the poetic, sensitive heart of the show, and when it came to an end six seasons later in 2003, viewers were heartbroken.
In the final episode, Dawson’s younger sister Lilly asked him what a soulmate is. “It’s like a best friend, but more,” replies Dawson. “A soulmate is someone you carry with you forever.”
Continue reading The Independent’s look back at Van Der Beek’s career:
Goodbye, Dawson: James Van Der Beek was a generation’s soulmate
James Van Der Beek shares spring hopes in final video
01:15 , Kevin PerryVan Der Beek's on-screen mother pays tribute
01:00 , Kevin PerryMary-Margaret Humes, who played Dawson’s mother Gail on Dawson’s Creek, wrote on Instagram:
“Rarely am I at a loss for words … today would be the exception. James, my gracious warrior, you fought a hard battle against all odds with such quiet strength and dignity.
“I will always love and admire you for that. Our last conversations … merely a few days ago … are forever sitting softly in my heart for safe keeping. To our extended Dawson’s Creek family of friends, please be respectful of our silences at the moment as Beautiful Kimberly and family have asked for peaceful privacy for now.”
Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre remembers Van Der Beek's faith
00:30 , Kevin PerryBrett Favre, the NFL star best known for his time with the Green Bay Packers, has paid tribute to Van Der Beek along with 3 Doors Down singer Brad Arnold.
He wrote on X: “First Brad Arnold and now James Van Der Beek has passed… Me and Deanna were good friends with him and I enjoyed our conversations, laughs and being able to spend time with him and his family over the years. It was great to see his faith and our condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans.”
First Brad Arnold and now James Van Der Beek has passed…
— Brett Favre (@BrettFavre) February 11, 2026
Me and Deanna were good friends with him and I enjoyed our conversations, laughs and being able to spend time with him and his family over the years.
It was great to see his faith and our condolences go out to his… pic.twitter.com/LsKaXDWMjb
Van Der Beek's first director recalls audition for debut film
00:15 , Kevin PerryPatrick Read Johnson was the director who gave James Van Der Beek his first film role in the 1995 coming-of-age drama Angus.
He shared his memory of the audition on X, writing: “The day I first met James Van Der Beek, he was auditioning to play Rick, the Quarterback/Homecoming King/Asshole/Bully in Angus.
“When he walked in, and was, instead of what I was expecting, one of the most charming guys I'd ever had try out for a part, I thought, ‘Kid... you need to come through the door in character-- You need to make me feel the way I did every time the jocks that used to torture geeks like ME used to feel when GODS like you walked into a room!’
“Instead, James read the part-- and played it-- just as charming as he really was. And, somewhere in the middle of it all, it hit me like a frozen pint of Uta Hagen Daz ice cream to the head-- that the Rick we needed HAD to be exactly as charming as James really was.
“He needed to be the guy everyone-- even his bullying victims-- could hardly help but have a crush on. It made him far more powerful than some simmering, knuckle-dragging, brute. James knew exactly what he was doing that day... And he took his considerable skills and complete commitment to the work and built a character that really worked for the film.
“He used to thank me, a lot, over the course of the making of the film, for giving him his first feature leading role. But, honestly, I was the one who got the most out of that deal. So long, James. Break a leg out there.”
The day I first met James Van Der Beek, he was auditioning to play Rick, the Quarterback/Homecoming King/Asshole/Bully in "Angus". When he walked in, and was, instead of what I was expecting, one of the most charming guys I'd ever had try out for a part, I thought, "Kid... you… pic.twitter.com/XFCkfVzSBI
— Patrick Read Johnson/Fan One (@moonwatcher1) February 11, 2026
Krysten Ritter remembers her 'Don’t Trust the B**** in Apartment 23' co-star
Wednesday 11 February 2026 23:58 , Kevin PerryOn her Instagram stories, Krysten Ritter posted photos of herself with Van Der Beek captioned: “Really hard news today.”
She added: “Beautiful human inside and out. Smart, funny, empathic, kind, talented and just pure magic. I’m so grateful for our friendship and so heartbroken. All my love goes out to his amazing wife Kimberly and their children.”
In a final slide, she concluded: “Love you so much, James and fake James.”
Goodbye, Dawson: James Van Der Beek was a generation’s soulmate
Wednesday 11 February 2026 23:08 , Kevin PerryJames Van Der Beek was just 20 years old when he began filming Dawson’s Creek in 1997 and still just about able to pass for the 15-year-old title character of the much-loved teen drama.
With his golden hair and expressive eyes, Van Der Beek made an immediate impression and it wasn’t long before fans across the world were smitten. Dawson was the poetic, sensitive heart of the show, and when it came to an end six seasons later in 2003, viewers were heartbroken.
In the final episode, Dawson’s younger sister Lilly asked him what a soulmate is. “It’s like a best friend, but more,” replies Dawson. “A soulmate is someone you carry with you forever.”
Continue reading The Independent’s look back at Van Der Beek’s career:
Goodbye, Dawson: James Van Der Beek was a generation’s soulmate
'The Rules of Attraction' director says Van Der Beek was a 'pillar of strength'
Wednesday 11 February 2026 23:01 , Kevin PerryRoger Avary, the filmmaker who co-wrote Pulp Fiction before going on to direct The Rules of Attraction, has paid tribute to the latter film’s star on X:
“I’ve today learned that my dear friend James Van Der Beek, with whom I worked with on The Rules of Attraction, who has been a pillar of strength to me and my family during the hardest of times, passed away last night.
“I knew he was fighting a terrible battle with courage and compassion, and I’m blessed that we had just recently had a very philosophical and existential phone conversation.
“I have never known anyone else quite like him, and rarely felt so close a working connection, and my heart is broken at the loss, and my thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children. God bless you, James. I love you forever.”
Ben Stiller shares tribute
Wednesday 11 February 2026 22:45 , Carsen HoladayBen Stiller took to X to say although he didn’t know James Van Der Beek personally, he is sending condolences to his family for the loss.
“He just seemed like a great person and loving family man and he gave the world so much,” the actor and director wrote. “Sending love to his family.”
Really saddened at this news. I didn’t really know James Van Der Beek, but you could feel his heart. What a loss - and how bravely and intentionally he chose to help people through his experience. He just seemed like a great person and loving family man and he gave the world so…
Alfonso Ribeiro says he is 'broken' over James Van Der Beek's death
Wednesday 11 February 2026 22:41 , Carsen HoladayDancing with the Stars host Alfonso Ribeiro has shared a tribute to James Van Der Beek, saying that he is “broken” over the passing of his friend.
“He was my true friend brother and life guide,” Ribeiro wrote.
“I was with him through this horrible journey to beat cancer. His family and friends went on this roller coaster ride. The highs when it looked like he had it beat to the breaking lows of it coming back. I’ve learned so much from james. He and [his wife Kimberly] changed my life. I will forever be in debt for all they’ve given me and my family.”
Ribeiro continued: “He will live forever in my heart. I will always be there for their children. I will always hold my role as Gwen’s Goddie daddy as one of the most important roles of my life. I love you James and know I have a guardian angel watching over me. Being able to say goodbye this weekend will always live with me. RIP my brother. RIP.”
Jennifer Garner sends condolences
Wednesday 11 February 2026 22:22 , Carsen HoladayJennifer Garner shared her condolences with Kimberly Van Der Beek after the death of her husband.
“What a heartbreaking loss,” she commented on Kimberly’s Instagram post.
“So much love to you, Kimberly, and to your kids, as you navigate this tender time.”
What type of cancer did James Van Der Beek have?
Wednesday 11 February 2026 22:06 , Carsen HoladayJames Van Der Beek first announced his diagnosis with stage three colorectal cancer in November 2024.
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in either the colon or the rectum, which are both parts of the large intestine in the body’s digestive system.
It is the deadliest cancer among people under 50 in the U.S.
GoFundMe update
Wednesday 11 February 2026 21:58 , Carsen HoladayThe GoFundMe for James Van Der Beek’s family has raised over $315,000 of its $500,000 goal, meaning the amount has tripled in about an hour and a half.
A family friend launched the fundraiser to support Kimberly and their six kids. James was raising money for his cancer treatment before his death by auctioning off his memorabilia.
Co-star Busy Phillips shares heartbreak
Wednesday 11 February 2026 21:50 , Carsen HoladayDawson’s Creek actor Busy Phillips has shared an emotional tribute to James Van Der Beek on Instagram.
“My heart is deeply hurting for all of us today…every person who knew James and loved him, anyone who loved his work or had the pleasure of meeting him, all of his dear friends and community that surrounded him as he battled this illness, especially his parents and brother and sister,” Phillips wrote.
“But I am profoundly heartbroken for his incredible wife Kimberly and their six magical children. There is a go fund me for them to help out and i’ll put the link in my stories.
“James Van Der Beek was one in a billion and he will be forever missed and i don’t know what else to say. i am just so so sad. He was my friend and i loved him and i’m so grateful for our friendship all these years.”
'Too soon too young'
Wednesday 11 February 2026 21:48 , Carsen HoladayRosie O’Donnell has shared a brief tribute to James Van Der Beek on Instagram, simply writing: “too soon too young.”
While Van Der Beek was starring on Dawson’s Creek in 2001, he made an appearance on The Rosie O’Donnell Show during one of his press runs.
Derek Hough pays tribute
Wednesday 11 February 2026 21:39 , Carsen HoladayDancing with the Stars judge Derek Hough has paid tribute to James Van Der Beek by resharing a video that the late actor posted.
“My heart is heavy hearing about James’ passing,” Hough wrote. “I immediately thought of this video he shared , it moved me to tears the first time I saw it, and it moves me even more now.”
He continued, “I wanted to honor his memory by sharing.What a wise, thoughtful, loving man. Thank you, James, for your courage, your strength, and for sharing your light even in your darkest moments.
“Praying for his wife, his beautiful children, and his family. Thank you James.”
Lin Manuel Miranda sends condolences
Wednesday 11 February 2026 21:25 , Carsen HoladayHamilton star Lin Manuel Miranda, who filled in for James Van Der Beek when stomach viruses prevented him from attending the Dawson’s Creek reunion charity reading in September, posted an Instagram Story sending his love to Kimberly and their children Wednesday.
“My whole heart is with [the Van Der Beek family] today,” Miranda wrote.
Stacy Keibler remembers final days with actor
Wednesday 11 February 2026 21:18 , Carsen HoladayWWE Hall of Famer Stacy Keibler has paid tribute to her longtime friend James Van Der Beek in an Instagram post.
She captioned a picture of her kneeling next to Van Der Beek’s wheelchair and smiling up at him, in part, “Spending these final days with you has been a true gift from God. I have never been so present in my life.”
DWTS pro pays tribute
Wednesday 11 February 2026 21:08 , Carsen HoladayJames Van Der Beek’s former Dancing with the Stars partner Emma Slater commented on Kimberly’s post, “I’m so devastated.”
“He is and will always be family to me,” she wrote. “Love you so much, James. The man that you are, you can be proud of. So grateful that I got to be there to say goodbye to you.”
Slater and Van Der Beek competed on the dancing competition together during season 28 in 2019. The pair finished in fifth place.
Colorectal Cancer Alliance shares statement
Wednesday 11 February 2026 21:00 , Carsen HoladayThe Colorectal Cancer Alliance in Washington, D.C. shared a statement mourning James Van Der Beek, who was diagnosed with stage three colorectal cancer in the years before his death.
“The Colorectal Cancer Alliance is deeply saddened by the passing of James Van Der Beek at the age of 48 following his battle with colorectal cancer,” the organization said.
“James was more than a beloved actor and cultural icon to millions who grew up watching him on screen — he was also a devoted husband, father, and advocate who faced his diagnosis with courage and openness.
“The Alliance partnered with FOX to bring awareness to James’ colorectal cancer diagnosis on The Real Full Monty in December of 2024. By sharing parts of his journey, he helped shine a light on a disease that too often remains stigmatized or overlooked, particularly among younger adults.”
The group said that colorectal cancer, the deadliest cancer among people under 50, receives less funding than other major cancers.
“In recent years, we have seen an alarming rise in diagnoses among people under 50 — a reminder that this disease does not discriminate and that awareness, timely screening, increased funding, accelerated science, and access to care are critical.”
The message continued, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to James’s wife, their six children, and all who loved him. We honor the strength he demonstrated throughout his journey and the humanity he showed in sharing it.”
In conclusion, the Alliance urged people to talk to their doctors about screening for colorectal cancer at age 45 or sooner for high risk individuals.
“Through Project Cure CRC, the Alliance remains committed to ending this disease in our lifetime. We honor James’ life and legacy, and we stand with every family impacted by colorectal cancer.”
Survived by six children
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:57 , Carsen HoladayJames Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their two sons and four daughters together.
Melissa Joan Hart shares condolences
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:53 , Carsen HoladayActor Melissa Joan Hart shared an Instagram post remembering James Van Der Beek as a “truly a nice guy, a great father” and “wonderful actor.”
Van Der Beek shared hope for spring in last video
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:50 , Carsen HoladayIn the last video he posted to social media before his death, James Van Der Beek shared his hopes to focus on his goals in the springtime.
Chad Michael Murray remembers co-star
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:48 , Carsen HoladayActor Chad Michael Murray remembered his fellow ‘90s heartthrob in the comments of Kimberly’s Instagram post.
“Sending love and light to your beautiful family,” Murray wrote. “James was a giant. We’re so so so sorry for what you’re going through.
“His words, art and humanity inspired all of us – he inspired us to be better in all ways. God bless you guys.”
Murray and Van Der Beek were briefly co-stars when Van Der Beek guest starred in multiple episodes of One Tree Hill’s sixth season.
Paul Walter Hauser shares funds he raised for Van Der Beek's treatment
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:45 , Carsen HoladayActor Paul Walter Hauser shared an Instagram post showing that he raised over $14,000 on the app Cameo to help pay for James Van Der Beek’s cancer treatment.
“Love you, James,” the actor wrote. “I know you’re in Heaven being pampered with love. The Van Der Beeks will be in our daily prayers and we’ll be drumming up some money to support your beautiful family.”
He concluded, “Thanks for the body of work and for being one of the good guys.”
Walter Hauser, 39, announced last month on Instagram that he was raising money for Van Der Beek in response to the actor auctioning off his belongings to pay for his cancer treatment.
“James Van Der Beek started selling his old stuff from his past acting jobs to pay for his colorectal cancer treatments, and it didn’t sit well with me,” Walter Hauser wrote January 23. “I am an actor and father of 3 children, and I want them inheriting my trinkets/wardrobe/memorabilia someday.”
Sarah Michelle Gellar remembers actor
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:40 , Carsen HoladayActor Sarah Michelle Gellar commented on the Instagram post shared by James Van Der Beek’s family, “I’m so sad for your beautiful family.
“While James’ legacy will always live on, this is a huge loss to not just your family but the world. F*** Cancer.”
Family friend launches GoFundMe
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:37 , Carsen HoladayA family friend of the Van Der Beeks has launched a GoFundMe to support Kimberly and their six children in the wake of James’s death.
So far, more than $97,000 has been raised of the fundraiser’s goal of $500,000.
“James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,” the GoFundMe description says.
“After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026 leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children. Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time.”
The statement continued, “The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead. Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education.
“Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them.”
Tributes pour in under wife's post
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:34 , Carsen HoladayCelebrities and fans alike are sharing their heartbreak over James Van Der Beek’s death in the comments of his wife’s Instagram post.
Model Christie Brinkley commented on the post: “His kindness radiated, his love for his family was palpable it sparkled , everybody loved him. My most heartfelt condolences go out to his beautiful family he adored.”
“Man… life ain’t fair. God speed sir!” country singer Parker McCollum wrote.
Comedian Lauren Lapkus commented, “I’m so heartbroken to hear this. He was clearly such an incredible father and partner.”
Wife Kimberly Van Der Beek's tribute
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:32 , Carsen HoladayKimberly Van Der Beek paid tribute to her husband with a post on Instagram Wednesday, writing: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.
“There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
James Van Der Beek dies aged 48
Wednesday 11 February 2026 20:26 , Kevin PerryThe Dawson’s Creek star has died, less than two years after he revealed he had privately been receiving treatment for stage 3 colorectal cancer.
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