THE RUNDOWN
Dawson Creek’s James Van Der Beek passed away this morning at age 48 after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared the news on Instagram, 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.
Van Der Beek’s co-stars and friends quickly shared tributes to the star and their sympathies to his family, reflecting on the actor’s life and legacy. Read their messages below:
Melissa Joan Hart
“I’m heartbroken to hear that @vanderjames has passed away! He was truly a nice guy, a great father, a wonderful actor, and will always be my first on-screen kiss when he guest starred on #ClarissaExplainsItAll. Gone way too soon but it seems like he put up one hell of a fight. We ran into each other at the singing game show #WeAreFamily about two years ago when he sang a song with his daughter, encouraging her like a good dad does. My thoughts and prayers go out to his six kids, his wife, and family!”
Sarah Michelle Gellar
She shared two tributes. On Van Der Beek’s Instagram post announcing the news, she commented, “I’m so sad for your beautiful family. While James’s legacy will always live on, this is a huge loss to not just your family but the world. Fuck Cancer.”
She also posted an Instagram Story, writing, “I grew up alongside @vanderjames. He was one of the good guys. This is a true loss.”
Chad Michael Murray
“Sending love and light to your beautiful family. James was a giant,” he commented on the family’s announcement post. “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🙏”
Jennifer Garner
“What a heartbreaking loss,” she commented. “So much love to you, Kimberly, and to your kids, as you navigate this tender time. ♥️”
Jenna Dewan
“I will always and forever remember your sweet gentle soul,” she wrote on the family’s post. “My love and prayers with Kim and the entire family❤️🙏🏻”
Kate Walsh
“I will always and forever remember your sweet gentle soul,” she commented. “My love and prayers with Kim and the entire family❤️🙏🏻”
Rumer Willis
Willis commented on the family’s post, writing, “My dear wonderful friends I love you all, I am keeping you all in my heart. I’m so lucky to have had you in my life for so long. James set the bar as a husband and a father and big brother (to me) I am so grateful to have witnessed your love and respect and care for each other. Sending all the love and light to you all.”
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