Tomorrow, the most coveted boy in the world, next door, James Van Der Beekdead. This talented actor had many incredible qualities. But to those who knew him best, he was just James, a loving husband, devoted father and true friend.
In 2023, James had a colonoscopy, which revealed the presence of stage 3 colorectal cancer. James fought the beast as best he could. And his loved ones stood by him bravely till his last breath. After James’s soul took flight, the collective world mourned, as James was much more than the characters he played.
Instead, James was one of the good guys. He loved his people and humanity, without any ifs and buts. He was also often a solid ally are advocating the LGBTQ+ community, as well as pets in need of adoption, and, after his diagnosis, colorectal cancer.
His demise hits like a ton of bricks. But those who moved into James’s home are even more heartbroken, even as they are inspired by the courage James showed in his final days.
James Van Der Beek dies after battle with cancer
Shortly after his death, Kimberly Van Der Beek took to Instagram to announce the news of her husband’s passing. The couple was married for fifteen years. They spent their last six years together in Austin, Texas, where they moved in 2020.
In her heartfelt tribute, Kimberly wrote, “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He lived his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is so much to share about his wishes, love of humanity, and the sacredness of time,” Kimberly said, but “those days will come. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Following his diagnosis in 2023, James took his next steps privately. But as he finally said People In 2024, “I’ve been dealing with this secretly for some time, and in the past, I’ve found sharing things publicly helpful and cathartic.” So that’s exactly what James did. He then used his platform until his death to advocate for regular colonoscopies, regardless of one’s health and fitness level.
Stacy Keibler posted a message and photo of James sitting in a wheelchair
Stacy Keibler, a famous entertainer and close friend of James’ family, shared a raw, reflective post in the wake of James’ passing. Stacey only included one image in her post. But this one was powerful. In it, we see Stacey kneeling on the ground, looking lovingly at James as he sits in his wheelchair, looking out at the colorful sunset.
James’s final moments had a major impact on Stacey’s life. As she shared, “Spending these last days with you is a true gift from God. I have never been so present in my life.”
Stacey explained, “When you know time is sacred, you don’t waste a single breath.” Meaning, “Don’t rush,” “Scroll,” or even “Don’t worry about tomorrow.” Instead, say, “You sit,” “Listen,” “Hold hands,” and “Watch the sky change colors,” and then, “You let it change you too.”
As they peacefully transitioned, James taught Stacey to “trust God’s plan, even when it breaks your heart. Especially when it breaks your heart.” So now, Stassi leaves us all with a James-coded text, telling us to “Love the people in front of you. Speak the words. Watch the sunset,” just as James did in his final moments.
Erin Featherston gives a glimpse into James’ final days
Like Stassi, designer Erin Fetherston was also a close friend of James. In her remembrance post, Erin shared several photos taken during their friendship. But it was her final image that really stopped us in our tracks.
In it, we see Erin leaning down and actually smiling at James while holding his hand. As for James, he’s lying on his bed with his eyes closed and smiling. Both of their smiles were warm, as if they had just shared the funniest joke ever. And in her post, Erin maintained that same light energy, thanking James for his “friendship,” “always showing up” and “for being the person who goes the extra mile in her life.”
Erin wrote, “What an honor it was to have a seat at your table and call you my best friend. The space you left can never be filled, but we will do our best to shower your beautiful family with love and remember to keep dancing in your honor – because you always knew the importance of happiness.” Then she signed off by saying, “We love you. Always.”
James Van Der Beek’s GoFundMe has raised over $1 million
Cancer treatment is incredibly expensive. This also includes our broken healthcare system, a long battle that kept James from working full-time at his craft, plus six kids and a quirky Dawson’s Creek. the contract is that This deprived him of any residual earnings, and you can probably understand how James’s family is currently struggling following his death. Therefore, James’ closest associates recently launched a gofundme Campaign. And already, more than $1.4 million has been raised in financial assistance for her family.
As the campaign states, “During his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges, but also significant financial strain as they made every effort to support and care for James.” But now, “Kimberly and the children face an uncertain future. The cost of James’ medical care and long battle against cancer has left the family without funds.” So, if anyone can give, “Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives.”
At this point, James’ partners are close to their optimistic goal of $1.5 million for the Van Der Beek family.
Tell us – what is your favorite memory when you think about James or his characters?