Michelle Williams Triumphs at Actor Awards in First Appearance Since Co-Star's Death
Michelle Williams was photographed for the first time since the tragic passing of her Dawson's Creek co-star James Van Der Beek, as she emerged victorious at Sunday's 32nd Annual Actor Awards in Los Angeles. The 45-year-old actress from Kalispell, Montana attended the ceremony at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, wearing a stunning pink Prada gown while posing on the red carpet with her husband, director Thomas Kail, 49.
Award Recognition Amid Personal Loss
At the event, which marked the first major awards show since Van Der Beek's death at age 48 was announced on February 11, Williams received significant recognition for her onscreen work over the past year. She was honoured with the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for her portrayal of Molly Kochan in the series Dying for Sex.
Speaking to Entertainment Tonight on Sunday, Williams revealed that she has been thinking about Van Der Beek and his family constantly following his passing. The actress worked alongside Van Der Beek on the groundbreaking television series Dawson's Creek from 1998 until 2003, forming a bond that lasted decades.
Remembering a Colleague and Friend
Williams expressed gratitude toward those who have donated to Van Der Beek's family through various fundraising efforts. She also reflected on her long history with the awards ceremony, having been nominated numerous times over the past twenty-two years. This latest victory follows her previous win in 2020 for her performance in Fosse/Verdon.
The actress has earned critical acclaim throughout her career with nominations for projects including The Station Agent, Brokeback Mountain, My Week with Marilyn, Manchester by the Sea, and The Fabelmans. Her latest achievement comes during a period of personal reflection following the loss of her former colleague.
Van Der Beek's Legacy and Final Days
Van Der Beek's family released a statement on his Instagram account on February 11, announcing, Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. The statement continued, 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.
After Van Der Beek publicly revealed his cancer diagnosis in the fall of 2024, Williams confirmed in April 2025 that she had maintained contact with her co-star throughout his illness. We're in contact, and he's in our hearts and our minds, and he knows that, she said at the time. And we're here for him in every and all ways.
Dawson's Creek Reunion and Lasting Bonds
Last summer, Williams organized a Dawson's Creek reunion at New York City's Richard Rodgers Theater to benefit the nonprofit organization F Cancer. We grew up in Capeside and that's a bond that will last a lifetime, Williams explained. We wanted to gather around our dear friend James and remind him that we are all here. We always have been and we always will be. And I know the fans of Dawson's Creek feel the same way.
Van Der Beek was unable to attend the September event due to a stomach virus but left a heartfelt video message for attendees. I have been looking forward to this night for months and months ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she was putting it together, he said in the clip. I can't believe I'm not there. I can't believe I don't get to see my castmates, my beautiful cast in person.
Meaningful Recognition for Women-Centred Work
Following her victory on Sunday, Williams spoke with Extra about the significance of winning for Dying for Sex. She described the award as very meaningful and expressed particular satisfaction with creating a project focused on women's stories.
To be able to make something that's about women, written by women, directed by women, produced by women is really unusual, Williams noted. And so, I feel like it's an encouragement and it's an acknowledgment that work like this has a place, and so I hope I get to do it again and again.
The actress's appearance at the awards ceremony, marked by both professional achievement and personal remembrance, highlighted the enduring connections formed through shared creative experiences and the supportive community within the entertainment industry.
