James Van Der Beek is one proud dad as he celebrates his daughter Olivia’s 15th birthday.
The “Dawson’s Creek” actor and former DWTS contestant marked the special day with a sweet Instagram post, noting that his daughter is now the same age as his character, Dawson Leery, during the show’s pilot episode.
Van Der Beek shared a video of Olivia performing the show’s theme song, “I Don’t Want to Wait,” at the “Dawson’s Creek” reunion charity event.
“My oldest turned 15 today. Same age that Dawson was in the pilot,” Van Der Beek wrote in part.
James Van Der Beek Beams With Pride Over His Daughter
The actor, 45, goes on to express his pride over his teenage daughter, who confidently took center stage alongside his “Dawson’s Creek” co-stars.
“To watch you stand there in that red dress, so confidently taking center stage amidst all those people I’ve known so long and cherish so deeply… I’m just left in awe,” Van Der Beek continued.
Van Der Beek, who was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer last year, also looked back fondly on Olivia’s younger years.
“I’ve always joked that you came out ‘parent proof,’ but this last year, as I’ve watched you accelerate into so many big decisions, jump into so many activities, budget your time, do your homework and your hair (which, from my point of view, seem to require roughly the same amount of time & focus)… the less I think the parent-proof thing is a joke,” he wrote.
The “Dawson’s Creek” star concluded his post with encouraging words for Olivia. He wrote:
“Keep taking big swings, kiddo. Risk imperfection. Keep dreaming big and most importantly, be true to who you are. Because, while only YOU will know exactly who your most authentic self will be, as someone who’s known you your whole life… I can guarantee you’re going to love her.”
Fans React to Actor’s Sweet Gesture
Many were touched by Van Der Beek’s heartfelt message to his daughter. Actress Nikki Reed commented, “Overwhelmingly beautiful. All of it. Your gorgeous family, and your gorgeous words. Loving you all beyond measure.”
A fan wrote, “The girls singing was the most beautiful moment. You must be overwhelmed with pride! What a gift from your daughters!”
Another chimed in, “Wow. What an amazing love letter to your daughter. To be truly seen and known by a parent in this way.”
Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly, are also parents to Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, Joshua, and Jeremiah.
