The “Dancing With the Stars” community is coming together to honor former contestant James Van Der Beek following news of his passing at 48.
Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, announced the heartbreaking update in an Instagram post, writing, “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.” She added that there is more to share about his wishes and love for humanity, but asked for “peaceful privacy” as the family grieves.
In the hours after the post went live, members of the “DWTS” family filled the comments section with tributes, remembering not just a competitor, but a friend.
Emma Slater Calls Him ‘Family’
GettyVan Der Beek competed on season 28 of “Dancing With the Stars” in 2019 alongside pro Emma Slater. The pair made it to the semifinals and ultimately finished in fifth place. Throughout the season, he was praised for his dedication and vulnerability, especially as he opened up about personal family struggles while still delivering strong performances week after week.
Following news of his passing, Slater shared an emotional message in the comments.
“I’m so devastated. He is and will always be family to me ❤️ love you so much, James,” she wrote. “The man that you are, you can be proud of. So grateful that I got to be there to say goodbye to you.”
Her words reflected the close bond the two formed in the ballroom. During their season, Van Der Beek consistently earned high scores and surprised fans with his natural rhythm and commitment to the craft. More importantly, he built lasting friendships behind the scenes.
Alfonso Ribeiro, Rumer Willis and More Share Love
“Dancing With the Stars” co-host Alfonso Ribeiro also expressed his grief publicly.
“I am broken,” Ribeiro wrote on Instagram. “So happy to have him in my life. Lucky I got to be there to say goodbye.”
DWTS pro Daniella Karagach commented, “Sending so much love and prayers. ❤️🩹” while alum Hilaria Baldwin added, “Sending so much love. I’m so sorry.”
Former contestant Lance Bass wrote, “We are sending your beautiful family so much love. Safe travels James. You made this world a better place.”
Danica McKellar shared, “A beautiful soul and unthinkably tragic loss. Sending prayers of peace to your family as you process this. We are all by your side. 🙏”
Former champion Rumer Willis reposted Kimberly’s announcement on her Instagram Story along with a GoFundMe link, encouraging support for the family. “If you can donate please send whatever you can to help my friends,” she wrote.
Van Der Beek, best known for playing Dawson Leery on “Dawson’s Creek,” had privately battled stage 3 colorectal cancer since 2023 before publicly revealing his diagnosis in 2024. Through it all, he remained open about leaning on his wife and their six children for strength.
As Slater wrote in her tribute, he was more than a castmate. “He is and will always be family to me.”
