Joshua Jackson Says His “Processing Is Ongoing” After James Van Der Beek’s Death

Joshua Jackson is breaking his silence on Dawson’s Creek co-star James Van Der Beek‘s death.

While appearing on the Today show Tuesday morning to promote his partnership with the NHL and AstraZeneca for its Get Body Checked Against Cancer campaign, Jackson was asked whether he’s processed the loss of his friend and former co-star.

“I think it hits in a variety of different ways,” Jackson responded. “For me, as a father now, I think the enormity of that tragedy for his family hits me in a very different way than just as a colleague. So I think the processing is ongoing.”

He continued to reflect on their time working on Dawson’s Creek from 1998 to 2003, which catapulted the young actors into the spotlight. “He and I shared this very amazing time,” Jackson said. “It was formational for us. I know both of us look back on that time with great fondness, but I will also say that I know that I’m really just a footnote in what he actually accomplished in his life.”

“He became what we used to just call a good man, a man of the kind of belief, the kind of faith that allowed him to face the impossible with grace,” the 47-year-old added. “An unbelievable partner and husband, just a real man who showed up for his family and a beautiful, kind, curious, interested, dedicated father.”

Van Der Beek died on Feb. 11 at the age of 48 from colorectal cancer. He and his wife, Kimberly, shared six kids.

Following his death, fellow Dawson’s Creek co-star Katie Holmes and the show’s creator, Kevin Williamson, also paid tribute, in addition to many more stars.