James Van Der Beek has died. The news of his passing was shared on his official Instagram account on Wednesday, February 11, after a long battle with cancer. He was 48. The world is mourning the loss of this brilliant man and beloved ’90s star, but also remembering the love he had in his life. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, was his biggest supporter.
Kimberly Van Der Beek Celebrates Husband James Van Der Beek
Kimberly’s last Instagram post before the announcement of her husband’s death was on December 21, 2025. It shows her and James posing for a photo and smiling into the camera. It is a celebration of their enduring love. In the caption, she wrote, “Me and my bae.” She also included two heart emojis and a red rose.
What the couple had was special, and the comment section was flooded with supportive messages from friends and fans. Rumer Willis reacted to the post, writing, “Love you my sweet friends.” Other reactions include, “Beautiful!!!! you guys are in our family’s prayers,” “beautiful couple… beautiful family. Happy holidays beauty,” and “You two are beautiful and inspiring. My husband is battling v similar battle. May they both win the fight & us who love them so.”
Kimberly and James married in 2010 and had six children. She continued to support him through his cancer battles, something that the actor was incredibly grateful for. In an appearance on “Today” in December 2025, the “Dawson’s Creek” actor praised Kimberly for stepping up for him.
“I would not be alive if it weren’t for my wife,” he said, E! News reports. “She just has stepped up as a caretaker, as a nurse, as head of the household. My kids, as much as I want to shield them from seeing me in any kind of pain or just stress—I wanted to be Super Dad, you realize that resilience is not only something they have and can build, but it’s the best thing for them.”
James Van Der Beek Passes Away
The heartbreaking announcement of James’s death was shared on Instagram. It shows a photo of him looking healthy and content as he gazes into the camera. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” the caption reads. “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.”
The post has been flooded with loving messages, including from “Dancing with the Stars” pros and alums. The actor competed on Season 28 alongside professional dancer Emma Slater.
“Sending so much love and prayers,” Daniella Karagach wrote. “A beautiful soul and unthinkably tragic loss. Sending prayers of peace to your family as you process this. We are all by your side,” Danica McKeller shared.
