James Van Der Beek has died at the age of 48, three years after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. His final Instagram post was a heartwarming tribute to his daughter Annabel on her 12th birthday.
The actor, best known for his role in Dawson's Creek, shared a photo of himself hugging Annabel, along with a caption reflecting on the similarities between his daughter and his own father, with whom she shares a birthday. He described them as 'marvels' and said the world is a better place because of them.
Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. He went public with his cancer diagnosis in November 2024, saying he had been privately dealing with it. In a final interview in December, he said he felt 'much better' and that the journey had required more strength than he knew he had.
News of his death was announced on Instagram, with a statement describing him as meeting his final days with courage, faith and grace. The family requested privacy. Van Der Beek was previously married to Heather McCob, who shared a touching tribute, remembering him as 'innocent, kind and pure of heart.'
