Mary-Margaret Humes, who played Gail Leery in the iconic television series Dawson's Creek, has shared a heartfelt tribute to her on-screen son James Van Der Beek ahead of Father's Day. Van Der Beek, who played Dawson Leery, died in February this year at the age of 48 after a battle with stage III colorectal cancer.
On Saturday, Humes posted a photograph on social media featuring herself, Van Der Beek, and actor John Wesley Shipp, who played her on-screen husband Mitch Leery. The image was accompanied by a message encouraging fans to cherish their loved ones, as she reflected on the fragility of life.
“Wishing all of the amazing dads throughout this vast universe a Happy Father’s Day weekend,” she wrote. “My advice? Give big meaningful hugs and tell them you love them … a shout-out to simpler times with @vanderjames @johnwesleyshippjr.”
Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah. Kimberly has previously spoken about her grief, describing the loss as “heartbreaking” and thanking fans for their support during the difficult time.
Humes had earlier paid tribute to Van Der Beek following his death, calling him a “gracious warrior” who fought with “quiet strength and dignity”. The Dawson's Creek cast and crew have largely remained private, respecting the family's request for peaceful privacy as they mourn.
