James Van Der Beek’s Final Posted Photo Was a Heartbreaking Tribute to His Daughter
James Van Der Beek‘s final Instagram post was a touching tribute to his daughter and father.
In a post dated Jan. 23 (below), the 48-year-old actor is seen embracing his 12-year-old, Annabel.
The charismatic Dawson’s Creek star lost his battle with colorectal cancer on Wednesday.
Van Der Beek wrote in his final post, “My father and my daughter share a birthday today. At first, I thought that was all they shared — they seemed so different to me. But as the two of you have evolved, and let more of who you are shine through, I can recognize the same open, warm, loving, gentle heart. I see the care and dedication you shower upon those you love most. I see the same out-of-the-box Aquarian creativity and originality. And you both make every room you’re in more fun. Different senes of humor, but you both have a way of alchemizing the vibe around you in such a subtle way one can almost miss how powerfully you do this.”
“In this crazy world, it’s a wonder to me that you’ve managed to stay so open, so tender, and so genuinely good,” he added. “You are marvels… and I’m so insanely grateful to have you in my life. The world is a better place because the two of you are in it. Happy birthday, guys. I love you with all my heart.”
The father of six children, Van Der Beek announced in November 2024 that he had “been privately dealing with this diagnosis” — it was Stage 3 — since August 2023.
The next Instagram post was the actor’s wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, announcing his passing. She wrote: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. 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.”
Tributes for the actor have poured in from his former colleagues, such as Chad Michael Murray, who starred alongside Van Der Beek on One Tree Hill and wrote: “Sending love and light to your beautiful family. James was a giant. We’re so so so sorry for what you’re going through. His words, art and humanity inspired all of us — he inspired us to be better in all ways. God bless you guys.” (See photos of his most memorable roles.)
HiCelebNews online magazine publishes interesting content every day in the celebrity section of the entertainment category. Follow us to read the latest news.
