Celebrities React to James Van Der Beek’s Death at 48

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The simple act of loving James Van Der Beek was enough.

Following a fight with colon cancer, actor Michael Landon’s son, known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, passed away at 48 years old. Many friends, coworkers, and family members shared their sadness over his death.

Fellow ’90s star Sarah Michelle Gellar also shared her condolences with James’ family, writing, “I’m so deeply saddened for your loss. James’ memory will live on, but this is a devastating loss for your family and everyone who knew him. Cancer is awful.”

Alfonso Ribeiro, the host of Dancing With the Stars, revealed he shared a last special moment with a close friend.

He shared on Instagram that he was heartbroken, but grateful for the presence of someone special in his life. He felt fortunate he could say goodbye.

James Van Der Beek’s family announced on Instagram that he died peacefully on February 11th. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children: Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, Gwendolyn, 7, and Jeremiah, 4.

It truly broke my heart to hear the news, but even in his final moments, he was so brave, full of faith, and carried himself with such grace. The family shared that he had so many wishes he wanted fulfilled, and a deep love for everyone, always emphasizing how precious time is. They’ll share more about that later, but right now, they just need some peace and quiet to grieve the loss of their wonderful husband, father, son, brother, and friend – and honestly, they deserve that space.

He realized the most important part of his experience was learning to love himself. He came to understand that he deserved love, just as he was.

He also learned to slow down and enjoy the moment.

After receiving a Stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024, James openly shared his experiences and how the illness affected him.

James shared with Craig Melvin on Today in December 2025 that when he first learned the news, he felt incredibly optimistic. He immediately thought it would be a turning point for the better. He explained he had a strong feeling that this event would lead him to make life changes he wouldn’t have considered otherwise.

More important than any changes to her daily routine, the lessons the Varsity Blues actress learned during her journey were what truly made a difference.

He realized the most important shift was learning to love himself. He came to understand that he deserved love, just as he was.

He also learned to slow down and enjoy the moment.

James shared that facing cancer has taught him the value of living in the moment. He used to simply be aware of life’s small joys, seeing them as things to collect. Now, he finds he can truly relax and appreciate each experience as it happens.

For more celebs who have paid tribute to the beloved actor, read on. 

She shared on Instagram that she was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of James Vanderkamp. She remembered him as a kind person, a devoted father, and a talented actor, fondly recalling him as her first on-screen kiss during his appearance on the show Clarissa Explains It All.

She shared that he passed away too young, but fought bravely. They met about two years ago on the show #WeAreFamily, where he performed with his daughter and was a supportive father. She’s sending her condolences to his wife, six children, and the rest of his family.

As she wrote on Instagram, “Sending so much love to your family.”

The professional dancer from Dancing with the Stars, who partnered with James during season 28 of the show, shared a heartfelt message saying she was heartbroken by his passing. She described him as family and expressed her deep love, adding that he should be proud of the person he was. She was grateful she had the chance to say goodbye.

Paul shared a heartfelt message on Instagram to James, saying, “Love you.” He expressed his belief that James is now at peace and surrounded by love in Heaven. Paul also said his family will be keeping James’s family, the Van Der Beeks, in their thoughts and will be raising money to help support them. He finished by thanking James for his work and remembering him as a genuinely good person.

The One Tree Hill star sent their heartfelt condolences to the family, saying, “James was an incredible person. We are deeply saddened by your loss. He inspired us all with his words, creativity, and kindness – he made us want to be better people. Sending you all our blessings.”

She shared her love in the comments, writing, “Sending so much love. I’m so sorry.”

She shared a heartfelt message, saying she loved her friends and was thinking of them after the news of James’ passing. She expressed how grateful she was for their long-lasting friendships, and admired how James exemplified what it meant to be a loving husband, father, and brother. She was thankful to have seen the love and care they all shared.

She added, “Sending all the love and light to you all.”

The Dancing with the Stars host shared on Instagram that they are heartbroken. They expressed gratitude for having a special someone in their life and were thankful they could say goodbye.

She expressed her deep sadness for the family on Instagram, acknowledging that while James will be remembered fondly, his death is a significant loss for both them and the world. She ended with a strong statement against cancer.

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2026-02-11 23:20