James Van Der Beek, the actor probably best known for his role in the TV series Dawson's Creek, has died, per TMZ. He was 48. There was no cause of death announced but it was known that the star was dealing with colorectal cancer.
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In a poignant Instagram post, his wife, Kimberly, wrote, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. 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 Actor and His Wife Shared Six Children
James and Kimberly married sixteen years ago and shared six children ranging in age from 15 to 4, per People.
Despite his own serious health situation, Van Der Beek was still generously thinking of others in similar circumstances. Just over a year ago, he was busy raising awareness of "prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research," per the outlet. He participated in a special called The Real Full Monty to do so.
He Posted a Loving Tribute to His Father and Daughter in January
On January 25, Van Der Beek wrote a beautiful message on Instagram to his daughter Annabel on her 12th birthday and to his dad. Reading it now brings a tear to the eye. It was his last post. He sentimentally wrote, "My father and my daughter share a birthday today. At first, I thought that was all they shared - they seemed so different to me."
Van Der Beek added, "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...."
You could say that Van Der Beek himself fit that description to a T. He had all those wonderful traits and brought them to his acting and his life. They enriched us all when we watched him acting and being the special person he was.
Fans Are Mourning and Expressing Their Sincere Appreciation for His Work and Life
Although it was known that Van Der Beek was grappling with cancer, the news of his passing hit hard. We lost him so very young. Fans are paying warm tribute to their favorite actor by posting messages on social media.
"James had a kind, generous, thoughtful, and beautiful soul. There is no doubt those traits will live on through his wife and gorgeous children.
Rest In Peace, man."
"Heartbroken for you all. He had such heart and soul. Lifting you all in prayer."
"Rest easy James, you're a wonderful soul who brought joy and awareness. You're a legend."
"A beautiful soul and unthinkably tragic loss. Sending prayers of peace to your family as you process this. We are all by your side."
