Sarah Michelle Gellar has paid a heartfelt tribute to James Van Der Beek, insisting his legacy “will always live on” following his tragic death. The beloved actor, best known for his iconic role as Dawson Leery in the hit TV series Dawson’s Creek, passed away at 48 after being diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August 2023.
The 48-year-old actress took to Instagram to express her sorrow, writing: “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. (sic).”
Chad Michael Murray has also paid tribute to James, sending his heartfelt condolences to the late star’s family. He wrote: “Sending love and light to your beautiful family. 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.”
Emma Slater, who was paired with James as his professional dance partner on Dancing With the Stars in 2019, revealed she is “devastated” by the loss. The dancer expressed: “I’m so devastated.
“He is and will always be family to me. 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.”
Dancing With The Stars favorite Derek Hough was among those expressing grief over the loss. He reshared footage of James discussing his journey and diagnosis, writing: “My heart is heavy hearing about James’ passing. 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.
“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.”
James had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023, with his passing confirmed by his spouse, Kimberly Van Der Beek.
Alongside a photo of her husband, Kimberly wrote 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.”
A fundraising campaign has since been launched as the family faces “significant financial strain”. The page’s description states: “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.”
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.the-express.com ’
