James Van Der Beek tragically passed away after a long battle with cancer.
The “Dawson’s Creek” alum was a family man until the end, as his final social media post was a tribute to his daughter and father.
James Van Der Beek’s Final Social Media Post
Van Der Beek shared a heart-wrenching tribute to his daughter and father on their joint birthday in January.
“My father and my daughter share a birthday today. At first, I thought that was all they shared – they seemed so different to me,” she shared alongside a photo with his daughter.
He continued, “But as the two of you have evolved, and let more of who you are shine through, I can recognize the same open, warm, loving, gentle heart. I see the care and dedication you shower upon those you love most. I see the same out-of-the-box Aquarian creativity and originality. And you both make every room you’re in more fun. Different senes of humor, but you both have a way of alchemizing the vibe around you in such a subtle way one can almost miss how powerfully you do this.”
The late star concluded, “The world is a better place because the two of you are in it. Happy birthday, guys. I love you with all my heart ❤️”
James Van Der Beek Passed Away at 48
Shortly after news broke, the Van Der Beek family shared the heartbreaking news with his fans.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” the family’s statement read. “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 beloved “Varsity Blues” actor was first diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August 2023, though he did not publicly reveal his diagnosis until November 2024.
“I had to come nose to nose with death,” he shared via Instagram in March 2025. “I was away for treatment, so I could no longer be a husband that was helpful to my wife. I could no longer be a father who could pick up his kids and put them to bed and be there for them. I could not be a provider because I wasn’t working.”
A great loss to all of us. James was a great artist and person. My deepest condolences to his wife and children.
Fabulous actor. So sorry for your loss. I lost my husband on New Year’s Eve from cance. Horrible disease.