WWE star Stacy Keibler shares emotional James Van Der Beek tribute, photo of final days
- - WWE star Stacy Keibler shares emotional James Van Der Beek tribute, photo of final days
Anna Kaufman, USA TODAYFebruary 12, 2026 at 8:56 PM
0
As news of James Van Der Beek's death sends ripples across the entertainment industry, Stacy Keibler is sharing a heartfelt tribute to her "gift" of a friend.
The former WWE champion took to Instagram Wednesday to share a photo of Van Der Beek in his final days, sitting in a wheelchair looking out at the sunset as she crouched beside him.
"Spending these final days with you has been a true gift from God. I have never been so present in my life," she wrote. "When you know time is sacred, you don't waste a single breath. You don't rush. You don't scroll. You don't worry about tomorrow. You sit. You listen. You hold hands. You watch the sky change colors and you let it change you too."
James Der Beek, seen here smooching wife Kimberly at Logo's 2011 NewNowNext Awards in Hollywood, was a doting dad of six. Look back at the late star's many red-carpet appearances with his family.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/8jUgqkCwgA8UB2k4xNO9qQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xOTAy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d9b0e1a7ceff72afa4acbd865a9f2f36 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
James Der Beek, seen here smooching wife Kimberly at Logo's 2011 NewNowNext Awards in Hollywood, was a doting dad of six. Look back at the late star's many red-carpet appearances with his family.
">James Der Beek, seen here smooching wife Kimberly at Logo's 2011 NewNowNext Awards in Hollywood, was a doting dad of six. Look back at the late star's many red-carpet appearances with his family.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/8jUgqkCwgA8UB2k4xNO9qQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xOTAy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d9b0e1a7ceff72afa4acbd865a9f2f36 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek at the premiere of "The Grey" in LA on Jan. 11, 2012.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/uRUzJkdpmGMjx7uhm_vmUA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzgx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/015a8306e726c22fad4074aaafee9afc class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek at the premiere of "The Grey" in LA on Jan. 11, 2012.
">James Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek at the premiere of "The Grey" in LA on Jan. 11, 2012.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/uRUzJkdpmGMjx7uhm_vmUA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzgx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/015a8306e726c22fad4074aaafee9afc class=caas-img>The couple at Fox's post-Emmys party on Sept. 23, 2012, in LA.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/uDEAFH6C199rbeYD44Ij0A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MDY-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c48bb5680ef01f25126e5c90770a0aa2 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The couple at Fox's post-Emmys party on Sept. 23, 2012, in LA.
">The couple at Fox's post-Emmys party on Sept. 23, 2012, in LA.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/uDEAFH6C199rbeYD44Ij0A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MDY-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c48bb5680ef01f25126e5c90770a0aa2 class=caas-img>The Van Der Beeks at the "Labor Day" premiere during Toronto Film Festival on Sept. 7, 2013.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Z6GMdIPIzdo8au.Vu.Ofhw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODY3/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9fc4c6c32bcf7e505608dc026539ff28 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The Van Der Beeks at the "Labor Day" premiere during Toronto Film Festival on Sept. 7, 2013.
">The Van Der Beeks at the "Labor Day" premiere during Toronto Film Festival on Sept. 7, 2013.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Z6GMdIPIzdo8au.Vu.Ofhw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODY3/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9fc4c6c32bcf7e505608dc026539ff28 class=caas-img>The couple arrives with son Joshua and daughter Olivia at the 11th John Varvatos Stuart House Benefit on April 13, 2014, in LA.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/2W5IzHgSjv8E2GL4uAsCfw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODE4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/de4be7a920d68fd919ccf7ff6907563f class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The couple arrives with son Joshua and daughter Olivia at the 11th John Varvatos Stuart House Benefit on April 13, 2014, in LA.
">The couple arrives with son Joshua and daughter Olivia at the 11th John Varvatos Stuart House Benefit on April 13, 2014, in LA.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/2W5IzHgSjv8E2GL4uAsCfw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODE4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/de4be7a920d68fd919ccf7ff6907563f class=caas-img>The actor shares popcorn and cotton candy with Olivia at the same event.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/6lGS6J7C3Xl9_.Fd0KowXA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2711d476eb61258204570a09bad9989a class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The actor shares popcorn and cotton candy with Olivia at the same event.
">The actor shares popcorn and cotton candy with Olivia at the same event.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/6lGS6J7C3Xl9_.Fd0KowXA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2711d476eb61258204570a09bad9989a class=caas-img>The family hangs with superheroes on the red carpet at Marvel Universe LIVE! on May 2, 2015, in Inglewood, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1HlOHn9RErXq_rSROYrY6w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/405047a41123cf828b48c3dcc597dc94 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The family hangs with superheroes on the red carpet at Marvel Universe LIVE! on May 2, 2015, in Inglewood, California.
">The family hangs with superheroes on the red carpet at Marvel Universe LIVE! on May 2, 2015, in Inglewood, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1HlOHn9RErXq_rSROYrY6w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/405047a41123cf828b48c3dcc597dc94 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and Joshua smile for a selfie at the Julius Jr. toy launch on June 24, 2014, in West Hollywood, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KwIr2MSvzDMSCxWg4TyRZQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMDYx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3b3ede5a4903ebecc6275adcc030fd67 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and Joshua smile for a selfie at the Julius Jr. toy launch on June 24, 2014, in West Hollywood, California.
">James Van Der Beek and Joshua smile for a selfie at the Julius Jr. toy launch on June 24, 2014, in West Hollywood, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KwIr2MSvzDMSCxWg4TyRZQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMDYx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3b3ede5a4903ebecc6275adcc030fd67 class=caas-img>The couple in costume with their kids at the GOOD+ Foundation Halloween bash hosted by Jessica Seinfeld on Oct. 30, 2016, in Hollywood.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zPdROimwvjDp95hxO0LYEQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ea3d8900f4c9b1556889c0f078e3b761 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The couple in costume with their kids at the GOOD+ Foundation Halloween bash hosted by Jessica Seinfeld on Oct. 30, 2016, in Hollywood.
">The couple in costume with their kids at the GOOD+ Foundation Halloween bash hosted by Jessica Seinfeld on Oct. 30, 2016, in Hollywood.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zPdROimwvjDp95hxO0LYEQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ea3d8900f4c9b1556889c0f078e3b761 class=caas-img>The Van Der Beeks with daughters Olivia (standing) and Emilia at Safe Kids Day on April 23, 2017, in Culver City, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/M03t5jYzTg8VoAJqQiYhTw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzE5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1e6088ee712397b3c7b51a16e6de0736 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The Van Der Beeks with daughters Olivia (standing) and Emilia at Safe Kids Day on April 23, 2017, in Culver City, California.
">The Van Der Beeks with daughters Olivia (standing) and Emilia at Safe Kids Day on April 23, 2017, in Culver City, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/M03t5jYzTg8VoAJqQiYhTw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzE5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1e6088ee712397b3c7b51a16e6de0736 class=caas-img>The actor and Emilia have a father-daughter treat from In-N-Out Burger at the event.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0PiizDb0h4_viQq7usbezw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/da17e504f5bf759ed16666ba52760fa6 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The actor and Emilia have a father-daughter treat from In-N-Out Burger at the event.
">The actor and Emilia have a father-daughter treat from In-N-Out Burger at the event.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0PiizDb0h4_viQq7usbezw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/da17e504f5bf759ed16666ba52760fa6 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and daughter Annabel Leah at the same function.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/QYlETyiRFM9TyPFQ_7D3ng--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzE5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3eaecd1f04637d8b52b31ae5b088cece class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and daughter Annabel Leah at the same function.
">James Van Der Beek and daughter Annabel Leah at the same function.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/QYlETyiRFM9TyPFQ_7D3ng--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzE5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3eaecd1f04637d8b52b31ae5b088cece class=caas-img>The couple turned out for iHeartRadio Music Festival on Sept. 22, 2017, in Las Vegas.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TKTRwKRuRqYscQpaOcKmbA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjQ3/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e5b6429146fc69d32a2615704c4f1c71 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The couple turned out for iHeartRadio Music Festival on Sept. 22, 2017, in Las Vegas.
">The couple turned out for iHeartRadio Music Festival on Sept. 22, 2017, in Las Vegas.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TKTRwKRuRqYscQpaOcKmbA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjQ3/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e5b6429146fc69d32a2615704c4f1c71 class=caas-img>The family of six (at the time) at Santa's Secret Workshop on Dec. 2, 2017, in West Hollywood.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/U91St39C6D.UwHV.Iy2iOg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzAy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/25696f661320b4f71e507c3867aa84e1 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The family of six (at the time) at Santa's Secret Workshop on Dec. 2, 2017, in West Hollywood.
">The family of six (at the time) at Santa's Secret Workshop on Dec. 2, 2017, in West Hollywood.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/U91St39C6D.UwHV.Iy2iOg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzAy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/25696f661320b4f71e507c3867aa84e1 class=caas-img>Kimberly and James Van Der Beek at the "Pose" New York premiere on May 17, 2018.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XqCRzXcFY9b.lVr4MXIMMg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/acf9c10e64a37689d62e53771a455910 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
Kimberly and James Van Der Beek at the "Pose" New York premiere on May 17, 2018.
">Kimberly and James Van Der Beek at the "Pose" New York premiere on May 17, 2018.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XqCRzXcFY9b.lVr4MXIMMg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODY5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/acf9c10e64a37689d62e53771a455910 class=caas-img>Dad and kids Olivia, Annabel and Joshua Van Der Beek at Monster Jam on Aug. 18, 2018, in LA.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TNfr6cV.EAbIS9o084G9Zg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/16bed9b4ab281bfc6a56c2a690d1008b class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
Dad and kids Olivia, Annabel and Joshua Van Der Beek at Monster Jam on Aug. 18, 2018, in LA.
">Dad and kids Olivia, Annabel and Joshua Van Der Beek at Monster Jam on Aug. 18, 2018, in LA.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TNfr6cV.EAbIS9o084G9Zg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/16bed9b4ab281bfc6a56c2a690d1008b class=caas-img>The couple at the Trevor Project's TrevorLIVE LA on Dec. 3, 2018, in Beverly Hills, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/d5MOPxAeKbA4JduvmyyEBQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6fbffe42dc1bddb24b3174b064261b78 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The couple at the Trevor Project's TrevorLIVE LA on Dec. 3, 2018, in Beverly Hills, California.
">The couple at the Trevor Project's TrevorLIVE LA on Dec. 3, 2018, in Beverly Hills, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/d5MOPxAeKbA4JduvmyyEBQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6fbffe42dc1bddb24b3174b064261b78 class=caas-img>The Van Der Beeks at the Fox/Hulu Golden Globe Awards viewing party at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Jan. 6, 2019, in Beverly Hills.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XchKxL4aHj6Q56F8O66BpA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b8c4c49d1bcf6ceb3d322d14d310ca01 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The Van Der Beeks at the Fox/Hulu Golden Globe Awards viewing party at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Jan. 6, 2019, in Beverly Hills.
">The Van Der Beeks at the Fox/Hulu Golden Globe Awards viewing party at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Jan. 6, 2019, in Beverly Hills.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XchKxL4aHj6Q56F8O66BpA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b8c4c49d1bcf6ceb3d322d14d310ca01 class=caas-img>Kimberly and James Van Der Beek attend a screening of "Skin" on July 11, 2019, in Hollywood.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4CW1SBGfhAfPe9THMyrJRw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzE4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/fad565f0b09f1f4bbda71d69fe1949ad class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
Kimberly and James Van Der Beek attend a screening of "Skin" on July 11, 2019, in Hollywood.
">Kimberly and James Van Der Beek attend a screening of "Skin" on July 11, 2019, in Hollywood.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4CW1SBGfhAfPe9THMyrJRw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzE4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/fad565f0b09f1f4bbda71d69fe1949ad class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek snaps a selfie with two of his kids at Operation Smile's 11th Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7h.H61hCKHWMraKp0bnpdg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6357f96259201ccbff033ed5f9247859 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek snaps a selfie with two of his kids at Operation Smile's 11th Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
">James Van Der Beek snaps a selfie with two of his kids at Operation Smile's 11th Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7h.H61hCKHWMraKp0bnpdg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6357f96259201ccbff033ed5f9247859 class=caas-img>The couple attend HFC's Brain Health dinner on Sept. 30, 2023, in Austin, Texas.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0C8CezelNWLDjNqB2TrWIA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cf39176442ec76c29112d635211a9395 class=caas-img data-headline="Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind" data-caption="
The couple attend HFC's Brain Health dinner on Sept. 30, 2023, in Austin, Texas.
">The couple attend HFC's Brain Health dinner on Sept. 30, 2023, in Austin, Texas.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0C8CezelNWLDjNqB2TrWIA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cf39176442ec76c29112d635211a9395 class=caas-img>
1 / 21Remembering James Van Der Beek and the family he leaves behind
James Der Beek, seen here smooching wife Kimberly at Logo's 2011 NewNowNext Awards in Hollywood, was a doting dad of six. Look back at the late star's many red-carpet appearances with his family.
James Van Der Beek's friends' GoFundMe for his cancer costs hits $1M
The "Dawson's Creek" star's death was confirmed Feb. 11 by a representative for the actor, who shared an official GoFundMe for the family. His death at 48 followed a battle with colorectal cancer.
"In these past days, you taught me more about being present than any book ever could. You showed me what it looks like to trust God's plan, even when it breaks your heart. Especially when it breaks your heart," Keibler wrote. "The other night we watched the sunset together as you shared your wisdom, your hopes, and the promises we made to each other. We talked about how this world can feel upside down…and how maybe heaven needs your spirit now to help steady us down here. And just as the sun slipped away, a shooting star crossed the sky…as if to remind us that none of this is random."
The actor was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August 2023 and shared his illness with the public in November 2024. He continued working, in spite of his health battle, appearing on shows like the CW's "Walker" (2024) and Amazon Prime Video’s comedy "Overcompensating" (2025).
who died Feb. 11 at 48, made a name for himself in film and television in the early '90s. Revisit the actor's most memorable roles and career highlights, starting with Van Der Beek as Dawson Leery in "Dawson's Creek."
" style=padding-bottom:56%>From "Dawson's Creek" darling to "Dancing With the Stars," James Van Der Beek, who died Feb. 11 at 48, made a name for himself in film and television in the early '90s. Revisit the actor's most memorable roles and career highlights, starting with Van Der Beek as Dawson Leery in "Dawson's Creek."
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/72vtiAfsBTChcq5rK1quxg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xOTkx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e39f9b6a72794fc29c8838816ff156b6 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
From "Dawson's Creek" darling to "Dancing With the Stars," James Van Der Beek, who died Feb. 11 at 48, made a name for himself in film and television in the early '90s. Revisit the actor's most memorable roles and career highlights, starting with Van Der Beek as Dawson Leery in "Dawson's Creek."
">From "Dawson's Creek" darling to "Dancing With the Stars," James Van Der Beek, who died Feb. 11 at 48, made a name for himself in film and television in the early '90s. Revisit the actor's most memorable roles and career highlights, starting with Van Der Beek as Dawson Leery in "Dawson's Creek."
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/72vtiAfsBTChcq5rK1quxg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xOTkx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e39f9b6a72794fc29c8838816ff156b6 class=caas-img>In this photo taken in 1997, the cast of "Dawson's Creek": Katie Holmes (Joey Potter), James Van Der Beek (Dawson Leery), Michelle Williams (Jennifer Lindley) and Joshua Jackson (Pacey).
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Gxj6aCKPzoDLw_gZmV8U6Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTgx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f82d770e57e0ab744bc4e630d8ac9aca class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
In this photo taken in 1997, the cast of "Dawson's Creek": Katie Holmes (Joey Potter), James Van Der Beek (Dawson Leery), Michelle Williams (Jennifer Lindley) and Joshua Jackson (Pacey).
">In this photo taken in 1997, the cast of "Dawson's Creek": Katie Holmes (Joey Potter), James Van Der Beek (Dawson Leery), Michelle Williams (Jennifer Lindley) and Joshua Jackson (Pacey).
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Gxj6aCKPzoDLw_gZmV8U6Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTgx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f82d770e57e0ab744bc4e630d8ac9aca class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and John Voight star in "Varsity Blues" in 1999.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yHUfErgx0V49nALrCRhjIQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/54dc3fa8aef01b60fb52b7d0921df1c9 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and John Voight star in "Varsity Blues" in 1999.
">James Van Der Beek and John Voight star in "Varsity Blues" in 1999.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yHUfErgx0V49nALrCRhjIQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/54dc3fa8aef01b60fb52b7d0921df1c9 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and Heather McComb attend the GLAAD Awards on April 15, 2000, at the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/K4aBMrb4GRrANJ0Vm0Dqlw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODEz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7f130dbf8a94010bb38be1616a9695ae class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and Heather McComb attend the GLAAD Awards on April 15, 2000, at the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City, California.
">James Van Der Beek and Heather McComb attend the GLAAD Awards on April 15, 2000, at the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/K4aBMrb4GRrANJ0Vm0Dqlw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODEz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7f130dbf8a94010bb38be1616a9695ae class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek of "Dawson's Creek" arrives at the WB Network's 2001 All-Star Party on Jan. 6, 2001, in Pasadena, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yNcfdzYrIPL9GCS6h8r30w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0yMTY2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/20d66d923e6c4e67a4ff091612f289ff class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek of "Dawson's Creek" arrives at the WB Network's 2001 All-Star Party on Jan. 6, 2001, in Pasadena, California.
">James Van Der Beek of "Dawson's Creek" arrives at the WB Network's 2001 All-Star Party on Jan. 6, 2001, in Pasadena, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yNcfdzYrIPL9GCS6h8r30w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0yMTY2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/20d66d923e6c4e67a4ff091612f289ff class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek (seen here in 2001) stars as Dawson Leery in TV's "Dawson's Creek."
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VYHcmZ4b.hv824SKy.f3oQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODEx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/68caa4f3e00205ce3eab5f4a311f86cb class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek (seen here in 2001) stars as Dawson Leery in TV's "Dawson's Creek."
">James Van Der Beek (seen here in 2001) stars as Dawson Leery in TV's "Dawson's Creek."
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VYHcmZ4b.hv824SKy.f3oQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODEx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/68caa4f3e00205ce3eab5f4a311f86cb class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and Jessica Simpson at the Nickelodeon's 14th annual Kids' Choice Awards at Barker Hangar in Los Angeles on April 21, 2001.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/pDg.UGwncRpr.IynxlPwzw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04ODk-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d567ca52e9248f5084441a945950a940 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and Jessica Simpson at the Nickelodeon's 14th annual Kids' Choice Awards at Barker Hangar in Los Angeles on April 21, 2001.
">James Van Der Beek and Jessica Simpson at the Nickelodeon's 14th annual Kids' Choice Awards at Barker Hangar in Los Angeles on April 21, 2001.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/pDg.UGwncRpr.IynxlPwzw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04ODk-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d567ca52e9248f5084441a945950a940 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek plays in a softball game between the Hollywood All-Stars and the San Francisco Forty Niners Alumni on June 8, 2002, at the Network Associates Coliseum in Oakland, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/kaji_YiCMFZXe5sJiu5xgA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0yMDcx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4945ecfbf2a57d06daec2b897f987f74 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek plays in a softball game between the Hollywood All-Stars and the San Francisco Forty Niners Alumni on June 8, 2002, at the Network Associates Coliseum in Oakland, California.
">James Van Der Beek plays in a softball game between the Hollywood All-Stars and the San Francisco Forty Niners Alumni on June 8, 2002, at the Network Associates Coliseum in Oakland, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/kaji_YiCMFZXe5sJiu5xgA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0yMDcx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4945ecfbf2a57d06daec2b897f987f74 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek attends the launch of the "uBid for Hurricane Relief" charity auction and benefit at the Empire Ballroom on Oct. 15, 2005, in Las Vegas.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/e4BsfVoCZD13qaEmqlJf.Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MDU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/90363f071075ccf859c6dae9ffe6863e class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek attends the launch of the "uBid for Hurricane Relief" charity auction and benefit at the Empire Ballroom on Oct. 15, 2005, in Las Vegas.
">James Van Der Beek attends the launch of the "uBid for Hurricane Relief" charity auction and benefit at the Empire Ballroom on Oct. 15, 2005, in Las Vegas.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/e4BsfVoCZD13qaEmqlJf.Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MDU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/90363f071075ccf859c6dae9ffe6863e class=caas-img>James van der Beek arrives at a private performance of Cirque Du Soliel's "Delirium" on Sept. 14, 2006, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OzEibV._q667hOVrk6tzNQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODMz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/a755269a3bf13e8e295613c980cc7190 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James van der Beek arrives at a private performance of Cirque Du Soliel's "Delirium" on Sept. 14, 2006, in Los Angeles.
">James van der Beek arrives at a private performance of Cirque Du Soliel's "Delirium" on Sept. 14, 2006, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OzEibV._q667hOVrk6tzNQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODMz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/a755269a3bf13e8e295613c980cc7190 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek attends the 50th annual Hollywood Stars Game at the Dodger Stadium on June 21, 2008, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0xTEMgNxVUjPltx9ymlwiA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/16c0abc9a8044fe7c823815c2cc72fbb class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek attends the 50th annual Hollywood Stars Game at the Dodger Stadium on June 21, 2008, in Los Angeles.
">James Van Der Beek attends the 50th annual Hollywood Stars Game at the Dodger Stadium on June 21, 2008, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0xTEMgNxVUjPltx9ymlwiA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/16c0abc9a8044fe7c823815c2cc72fbb class=caas-img>Ian Somerhalder and James Van Der Beek arrive at the 2nd annual Golden Globes party on Dec. 8, 2009.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/v2tSEntndS_rKu56a.DePQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzUy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ed8ee444166bec87ba15571dacb8355d class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
Ian Somerhalder and James Van Der Beek arrive at the 2nd annual Golden Globes party on Dec. 8, 2009.
">Ian Somerhalder and James Van Der Beek arrive at the 2nd annual Golden Globes party on Dec. 8, 2009.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/v2tSEntndS_rKu56a.DePQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzUy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ed8ee444166bec87ba15571dacb8355d class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and Kimberly Brook attend the "William Vincent" after party during the 2010 Tribeca Film Festival at The Gates on April 25, 2010 in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/n4msFQlvioc87K.6r3dHKw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTU0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/299cacaa156aae5f5052198fd6bb4716 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and Kimberly Brook attend the "William Vincent" after party during the 2010 Tribeca Film Festival at The Gates on April 25, 2010 in New York City.
">James Van Der Beek and Kimberly Brook attend the "William Vincent" after party during the 2010 Tribeca Film Festival at The Gates on April 25, 2010 in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/n4msFQlvioc87K.6r3dHKw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTU0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/299cacaa156aae5f5052198fd6bb4716 class=caas-img> James Van Der Beek and Kimberly Van Der Beek attend HBO's Post 2011 Golden Globe Awards Party held at The Beverly Hilton hotel on Jan. 16, 2011 in Beverly Hills, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/t7gyahFBHiQFMDiE24WKuA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzg2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/068ad06fa53bc4cc4c65b7bcf41f967a class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and Kimberly Van Der Beek attend HBO's Post 2011 Golden Globe Awards Party held at The Beverly Hilton hotel on Jan. 16, 2011 in Beverly Hills, California.
"> James Van Der Beek and Kimberly Van Der Beek attend HBO's Post 2011 Golden Globe Awards Party held at The Beverly Hilton hotel on Jan. 16, 2011 in Beverly Hills, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/t7gyahFBHiQFMDiE24WKuA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzg2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/068ad06fa53bc4cc4c65b7bcf41f967a class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek speaks onstage during Logo's "NewNowNext Awards" 2011 at Avalon on April 7, 2011 in Hollywood, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/am7iA0Yo8CFkeiGze_29Wg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/53c094c16c0b509192672a9339383452 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek speaks onstage during Logo's "NewNowNext Awards" 2011 at Avalon on April 7, 2011 in Hollywood, California.
">James Van Der Beek speaks onstage during Logo's "NewNowNext Awards" 2011 at Avalon on April 7, 2011 in Hollywood, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/am7iA0Yo8CFkeiGze_29Wg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/53c094c16c0b509192672a9339383452 class=caas-img>Phoenix, James Van Der Beek, Mimi Imfurst and Alexis Mateo onstage during Logo's "NewNowNext Awards" 2011 at Avalon on April 7, 2011 in Hollywood, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/eh2sNcUOYIleCB7mY1ZnZQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04OTc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3414ebe8d86bf341e5e6d638bda1e4e6 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
Phoenix, James Van Der Beek, Mimi Imfurst and Alexis Mateo onstage during Logo's "NewNowNext Awards" 2011 at Avalon on April 7, 2011 in Hollywood, California.
">Phoenix, James Van Der Beek, Mimi Imfurst and Alexis Mateo onstage during Logo's "NewNowNext Awards" 2011 at Avalon on April 7, 2011 in Hollywood, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/eh2sNcUOYIleCB7mY1ZnZQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04OTc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3414ebe8d86bf341e5e6d638bda1e4e6 class=caas-img>Liza Lapira, James Van Der Beek and Krysten Ritter speak during the "Don't Trust the B---- In Apartment 23" panel during the ABC portion of the 2012 Winter TCA Tour held at The Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa on Jan. 10, 2012, in Pasadena, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/gsGm02wgtaQotRn0iHnBKw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04ODc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c2795c9a6dc245f24354dd3a245b24ec class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
Liza Lapira, James Van Der Beek and Krysten Ritter speak during the "Don't Trust the B---- In Apartment 23" panel during the ABC portion of the 2012 Winter TCA Tour held at The Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa on Jan. 10, 2012, in Pasadena, California.
">Liza Lapira, James Van Der Beek and Krysten Ritter speak during the "Don't Trust the B---- In Apartment 23" panel during the ABC portion of the 2012 Winter TCA Tour held at The Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa on Jan. 10, 2012, in Pasadena, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/gsGm02wgtaQotRn0iHnBKw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04ODc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c2795c9a6dc245f24354dd3a245b24ec class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek attend the premiere of Open Road's "The Grey" at Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE on Jan. 11, 2012.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XKjDvFWmqV13IRyMplg3NQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzY1/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ec91955ece66590bea48d5f7ddb89fac class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek attend the premiere of Open Road's "The Grey" at Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE on Jan. 11, 2012.
">James Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek attend the premiere of Open Road's "The Grey" at Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE on Jan. 11, 2012.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XKjDvFWmqV13IRyMplg3NQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzY1/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ec91955ece66590bea48d5f7ddb89fac class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek accepts the Icon Award during the 14th annual Young Hollywood Awards presented by Bing at Hollywood Athletic Club on June 14, 2012 in Hollywood, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/JPc3Tx6xpNwoq09TtUu1ZA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NTc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4305376a9cae2a42187ca3991be5e2d6 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek accepts the Icon Award during the 14th annual Young Hollywood Awards presented by Bing at Hollywood Athletic Club on June 14, 2012 in Hollywood, California.
">James Van Der Beek accepts the Icon Award during the 14th annual Young Hollywood Awards presented by Bing at Hollywood Athletic Club on June 14, 2012 in Hollywood, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/JPc3Tx6xpNwoq09TtUu1ZA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04NTc-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4305376a9cae2a42187ca3991be5e2d6 class=caas-img>
James Van Der Beek visits "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" at Rockefeller Center on Oct. 26, 2012 in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3TGJq6IQ65hsezrZkElbsQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNDQ2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b04a8b107fed7d0afb593090a6a30c03 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek visits "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" at Rockefeller Center on Oct. 26, 2012 in New York City.
">James Van Der Beek visits "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" at Rockefeller Center on Oct. 26, 2012 in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3TGJq6IQ65hsezrZkElbsQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNDQ2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b04a8b107fed7d0afb593090a6a30c03 class=caas-img>Kimberley Van Der Beek and James Van Der Beek attend the "Labor Day" premiere during the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival at Ryerson Theatre on Sept. 7, 2013, in Toronto, Canada.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vZlUzwcxd_ddY04gKbaIaA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzgz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/98511930b84a883262d5267468175c88 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
Kimberley Van Der Beek and James Van Der Beek attend the "Labor Day" premiere during the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival at Ryerson Theatre on Sept. 7, 2013, in Toronto, Canada.
">Kimberley Van Der Beek and James Van Der Beek attend the "Labor Day" premiere during the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival at Ryerson Theatre on Sept. 7, 2013, in Toronto, Canada.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vZlUzwcxd_ddY04gKbaIaA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzgz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/98511930b84a883262d5267468175c88 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek, son Joshua Van Der Beek, daughter Olivia Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek arrive at the 11th annual John Varvatos Stuart House Benefit at John Varvatos on April 13, 2014, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/MeNvQIlx6OHrDZ2aOydOUg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODE4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9e907bceb74fc9d623c8756b64536d1e class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek, son Joshua Van Der Beek, daughter Olivia Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek arrive at the 11th annual John Varvatos Stuart House Benefit at John Varvatos on April 13, 2014, in Los Angeles.
">James Van Der Beek, son Joshua Van Der Beek, daughter Olivia Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek arrive at the 11th annual John Varvatos Stuart House Benefit at John Varvatos on April 13, 2014, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/MeNvQIlx6OHrDZ2aOydOUg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODE4/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9e907bceb74fc9d623c8756b64536d1e class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and son Joshua Van Der Beek attend the John Varvatos 11th annual Stuart House Benefit at John Varvatos Boutique on April 13, 2014.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qsA4gtfr34TxnYd6W1Qc2Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/af452eb5fb6386eeddd722658bb29ff8 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and son Joshua Van Der Beek attend the John Varvatos 11th annual Stuart House Benefit at John Varvatos Boutique on April 13, 2014.
">James Van Der Beek and son Joshua Van Der Beek attend the John Varvatos 11th annual Stuart House Benefit at John Varvatos Boutique on April 13, 2014.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qsA4gtfr34TxnYd6W1Qc2Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/af452eb5fb6386eeddd722658bb29ff8 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek and Shad Moss speak onstage during the "CSI: Cyber" panel as part of the CBS/Showtime 2015 Winter Television Critics Association press tour on Jan. 12, 2015 in Pasadena, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/oFaPy2X4AqN7awi7ZcZ0XA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjk-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0dedea9b66833647d76fea4a5e061958 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek and Shad Moss speak onstage during the "CSI: Cyber" panel as part of the CBS/Showtime 2015 Winter Television Critics Association press tour on Jan. 12, 2015 in Pasadena, California.
">James Van Der Beek and Shad Moss speak onstage during the "CSI: Cyber" panel as part of the CBS/Showtime 2015 Winter Television Critics Association press tour on Jan. 12, 2015 in Pasadena, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/oFaPy2X4AqN7awi7ZcZ0XA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjk-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0dedea9b66833647d76fea4a5e061958 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek throws out the first pitch between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium on Sep 7, 2017.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/a_GFL3UzJFr8hnL_Gp6x3Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjY-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e22bd8f91b496fed9f267273653151b3 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek throws out the first pitch between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium on Sep 7, 2017.
">James Van Der Beek throws out the first pitch between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium on Sep 7, 2017.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/a_GFL3UzJFr8hnL_Gp6x3Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjY-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e22bd8f91b496fed9f267273653151b3 class=caas-img>From left, POSE honorees James Van Der Beek, Charlayne Woodard, Hailie Sahar, Our Lady J, Indya Moore, Dominique Jackson, Ryan Murphy, Janet Mock, Billy Porter, Steven Canals, Dyllon Burnside, Mj Rodriguez and Ryan Jamaal Swain attend the Trevor Project's TrevorLIVE LA 2018 at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on Dec. 3, 2018, in Beverly Hills, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/wqXjMNajNuv7BMuPiMs68Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/26cb75ed976c349ba7948c0f5a5d6107 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
From left, POSE honorees James Van Der Beek, Charlayne Woodard, Hailie Sahar, Our Lady J, Indya Moore, Dominique Jackson, Ryan Murphy, Janet Mock, Billy Porter, Steven Canals, Dyllon Burnside, Mj Rodriguez and Ryan Jamaal Swain attend the Trevor Project's TrevorLIVE LA 2018 at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on Dec. 3, 2018, in Beverly Hills, California.
">From left, POSE honorees James Van Der Beek, Charlayne Woodard, Hailie Sahar, Our Lady J, Indya Moore, Dominique Jackson, Ryan Murphy, Janet Mock, Billy Porter, Steven Canals, Dyllon Burnside, Mj Rodriguez and Ryan Jamaal Swain attend the Trevor Project's TrevorLIVE LA 2018 at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on Dec. 3, 2018, in Beverly Hills, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/wqXjMNajNuv7BMuPiMs68Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/26cb75ed976c349ba7948c0f5a5d6107 class=caas-img>
James Van Der Beek stops by the WarnerMedia Lodge for "Elevating Storytelling with AT&T" during Sundance Film Festival 2020 on Jan. 24, 2020, in Park City, Utah.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.RQk5SEoHiZRCtgYQFQh6A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7e3d6bf6eb89f0bc3367578336f7d394 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek stops by the WarnerMedia Lodge for "Elevating Storytelling with AT&T" during Sundance Film Festival 2020 on Jan. 24, 2020, in Park City, Utah.
">James Van Der Beek stops by the WarnerMedia Lodge for "Elevating Storytelling with AT&T" during Sundance Film Festival 2020 on Jan. 24, 2020, in Park City, Utah.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.RQk5SEoHiZRCtgYQFQh6A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7e3d6bf6eb89f0bc3367578336f7d394 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek attends Operation Smile's 11th annual Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/nTVttdbDESL5E51egHgljA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjY-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1057cbbde20cb2cd63e4fb2825aa2520 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek attends Operation Smile's 11th annual Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
">James Van Der Beek attends Operation Smile's 11th annual Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/nTVttdbDESL5E51egHgljA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjY-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1057cbbde20cb2cd63e4fb2825aa2520 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek, pictured here with his children, attends Operation Smile's 11th annual Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/MDy_4MmVQkOh9Z3kCvyJnA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0d3212ff16476d41de5d6faad4968b5a class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek, pictured here with his children, attends Operation Smile's 11th annual Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
">James Van Der Beek, pictured here with his children, attends Operation Smile's 11th annual Celebrity Ski & Smile Challenge on April 1, 2023, in Park City, Utah.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/MDy_4MmVQkOh9Z3kCvyJnA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0d3212ff16476d41de5d6faad4968b5a class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek arrives at the premiere of Prime Video Series "Overcompensating" at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/wWLJ2.8pGmVhmj83yeHvqA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/445281e3d99bc4fdf26691ad1533e9c8 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek arrives at the premiere of Prime Video Series "Overcompensating" at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles.
">James Van Der Beek arrives at the premiere of Prime Video Series "Overcompensating" at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/wWLJ2.8pGmVhmj83yeHvqA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/445281e3d99bc4fdf26691ad1533e9c8 class=caas-img>James Van Der Beek, Connie Britton and Benito Skinner arrive at the premiere of Prime Video Series "Overcompensating" at the Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qAMjP_Xy17KmQdJKmntSNg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMDU5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8e95bcef350ce1542456e1c5d236baa3 class=caas-img data-headline="James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'" data-caption="
James Van Der Beek, Connie Britton and Benito Skinner arrive at the premiere of Prime Video Series "Overcompensating" at the Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025, in Los Angeles.
">James Van Der Beek, Connie Britton and Benito Skinner arrive at the premiere of Prime Video Series "Overcompensating" at the Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qAMjP_Xy17KmQdJKmntSNg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMDU5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8e95bcef350ce1542456e1c5d236baa3 class=caas-img>
1 / 35James Van Der Beek's career from 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Varsity Blues'
From "Dawson's Creek" darling to "Dancing With the Stars," James Van Der Beek, who died Feb. 11 at 48, made a name for himself in film and television in the early '90s. Revisit the actor's most memorable roles and career highlights, starting with Van Der Beek as Dawson Leery in "Dawson's Creek."
Katie Holmes shares 'deep gratitude' for James Van Der Beek after death
"You are a gift. An incredible husband. An extraordinary dad," Keibler continued, lauding the way Van Der Beek showed up for his wife and children. "It has been an honor to stand beside your family in these sacred moments. It's pretty incredible how someone can fight so hard for so long, travel the world battling so much, and somehow still look so handsome doing it :) That smile never left you. You have given this world so many gifts. Your presence was a bright light in my life, and in so many others."
The actor is survived by his wife, Kimberly, whom he wed in 2010, and their six children.
"While your physical body may no longer be here, I know your spirit is doing big things. I feel it already," Keibler added. "We may have lost a good one here on earth… but heaven gained something extraordinary. I will think of you every time I watch a sunset. Every time I see a rainbow stretch across the sky. I'll know you’re there."
View this post on Instagram
Van Der Beek previously shared with USA TODAY that his diagnosis had reinvigorated his love for his chosen profession.
"For a minute, I thought, 'You know what? I don't need acting. I don't need it in the way that I did before,'" he said, during an interview in the summer of 2025. "I'm very, very happy just doing this here with my family. And then, when I got cancer, I realized I love to tell stories. Acting is actually a real passion. Writing is a real passion, and I need to feed that. So, I joke that I'm the only guy I know who got cancer and realized I need to work more."
Contributing: Erin Jensen, Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: James Van Der Beek dies – Stacy Keibler shares photo of final days
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
