On Wednesday, February 11, former “DWTS” pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy joined the droves of entertainers paying tribute to the late James Van Der Beek after the “Dawson’s Creek” star died of cancer at 48.
Chmerkovskiy wrote on his Instagram Stories, “What an unbelievably heartbreaking news of passing of James Van Der Beek this morning. World lost a kind, thoughtful and incredibly humble man who was someone I looked up to as a father.”
Van Der Beek was a father of six, and Chmerkovskiy has three kids.
The dancer wrapped up his tribute by acknowledging Van Der Beek’s bereaved family, saying, “My deepest condolences go out to his wife Kimberley and my whole heart is aching for his kids.”
Was James Van Der Beek on Dancing With the Stars?
Van Der Beek competed on season 28 of “Dancing With the Stars,” which aired in 2019, 5 years before he announced his cancer diagnosis. He was paired with Emma Slater and finished in 5th place.
‘DWTS’ Troupe Member Hayley Erbert Also Paid Tribute to James Van Der Beek
Hayley Erbert, “Dancing With the Stars” troupe member and wife of Derek Hough, remembed the late 90s teen idol by reposting a quote of his to her Instagram Stories which reads, “I thought I needed to teach my kids that life can be hard…but life does a perfectly adequate job teaching that on its own. So I realized I was probably most useful teaching my kids what can be easy: How easy it can be to laugh, cry, to learn…and to find joy in both the plans and the detours alike.”
Alongside the quote, Erbert wrote, “What a beautiful man. RIP.” She emphasized her message with a white heart and dove emoji.
Steven Spielberg is Among the Latest Celebrities to Donate to a GoFundMe for Van Der Beek’s Family
GettyA GoFundMe account set up for Van Der Beek’s family has already raised over $2 million, and among the donors is “Jaws” director Steven Spielberg. He contributed $25,000 along with wife Kate Capshaw.
The description says the family needs funds for essentials such as living expenses, bills, and Van Der Beeks’ children’s education.
The page explains the family’s current financial position by saying, “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.”
Zoe Saldana is another star who has pitched in. The “Avatar: Fire and Ash” star set up a $2,500 recurring donation.
