Why James Van Der Beek Moved to Texas With Family Years Before Cancer

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James Van Der Beek found his peace under a lone star. 

Nearly six years before his death at 48 following a long fight with colorectal cancer, actor James Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, chose to relocate their family from Los Angeles to a 36-acre property in Austin, Texas.

James shared with TopMob News in 2022 that even though he used to live on the West Coast, this place feels like where he belongs. He said he feels settled and enjoys experiencing the changing weather and seasons, and he wants his children to have that same connection.

James and Kimberly’s move in 2020 was largely motivated by their six children: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 4.

James told Austin Lifestyle in 2021 that they designed the space to give the residents privacy and connect them with nature. He also mentioned feeling a strong connection to Austin while visiting for their anniversary.

He described the atmosphere as being just like when he filmed Varsity Blues in the city back in 1999. He added that it was great to think, ‘I can go back there, and we can take our family with us.’

Although he and Kimberly enjoyed their years in Los Angeles after getting married in 2010, they discovered a stronger sense of community when they moved to Austin.

James pointed out the different ways people handle needs in Los Angeles versus Texas. In LA, it’s common to use delivery services like Postmates when you’re sick, and rely on recommendations for services like moving. In Texas, people often receive help directly from neighbors and friends – someone might make you a meal and deliver it, or a group of friends will show up with trucks to help you move.

He explained that life here was simply different. He wasn’t saying it was better, just that he’d been longing for that close-knit, community-focused way of living.

James and Kimberly’s decision to move to Texas happened during a tough period for them. As James shared on Instagram in October 2020, on top of the COVID-19 pandemic, they had faced several other hardships throughout the year.

Over the past ten months, we’ve experienced two heartbreaking late-term pregnancy losses, both of which required Kimberly to be hospitalized. We also went through a very difficult Christmas break, initially believing she had a tumor (fortunately, the doctors were mistaken). On top of that, I was unexpectedly eliminated from a reality dance competition I was predicted to win, and sadly, my mother passed away.

Despite facing difficulties, the couple, who had a son in 2021, went through significant life changes that altered their goals and brought them to where they are now.

James Van Der Beek’s family announced his death on February 11th, sharing that he passed away peacefully after a long struggle. They described him as courageous, faithful, and graceful in his final days.

His family shared that he had many heartfelt wishes, a deep love for people, and greatly valued every moment. They said they will share more details in the future, but right now, they ask for privacy as they mourn the loss of their beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend.

For a look back at James’ life, keep reading.

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2026-02-12 00:17