Fans Mourn Dawson’s Creek Star James Van Der Beek: Friends Share Heartbreaking Final Moments in Intimate Tributes

By Entertainment Correspondent Emily Harper

LOS ANGELES – As the world continues to grieve the loss of James Van Der Beek, who passed away on February 11, 2026, at age 48 after a valiant battle with colorectal cancer, close friends are sharing deeply personal glimpses into his final days. These intimate photographs and messages reveal a man surrounded by love, laughter, and profound connections, even as his body weakened. The tributes underscore the actor’s enduring impact—not just as the earnest Dawson Leery from Dawson’s Creek, but as a cherished friend, husband, and father.

thesun.co.uk

James Van Der Beek’s ‘last moment’ with close pal Alfonso Ribeiro as pair share loving embrace before final goodbye

Alfonso Ribeiro, best known for his role as Carlton Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, posted one of the most emotional images: a close-up of the two embracing in bed, foreheads touching in quiet solidarity. Taken by Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, just minutes before Ribeiro said his last goodbye, the photo captures a moment of raw vulnerability. “My last moment was making him laugh one last time,” Ribeiro captioned the image. “I really miss him already.” The embrace, with Ribeiro’s arm gently cradling his friend’s head, speaks volumes about their bond forged over years of shared Hollywood journeys and personal support.

people.com

Alfonso Ribeiro Shares Photo of His ‘Last Moment’ with James Van Der Beek

Earlier, wellness advocate and longtime friend Stacy Keibler offered fans a poignant look at Van Der Beek’s final sunset. In the photo, the actor sits in a wheelchair as Keibler stands beside him, both gazing at the golden Texas horizon. The image, bathed in warm orange hues, shows Van Der Beek’s profile against the fading light, with Keibler gently supporting him. “The other night we watched the sunset together as you shared your wisdom, your hopes, and the promises we made to each other,” she wrote. “We talked about how this world can feel upside down…and how maybe heaven needs your spirit now to help steady us down here.” The serene yet heartbreaking scene highlights how Van Der Beek found peace in nature and friendship amid his illness.

sg.news.yahoo.com

Stacy Keibler Pays Tribute to James Van Der Beek With Rare Heartwarming Photo From His Final Days – Yahoo News Singapore

These tributes come amid a wave of remembrance following Van Der Beek’s death announcement by Kimberly on Instagram. The family requested privacy while processing their loss, but friends’ posts have provided comfort to fans worldwide. Ribeiro and Keibler, both of whom maintained close ties with the actor beyond the spotlight, emphasized his humor, grace, and unwavering faith in his final weeks.

Van Der Beek’s cancer diagnosis in 2023 prompted him to advocate for early screening, especially among younger adults facing rising rates of the disease. He partnered with health organizations to promote awareness, sharing his journey openly to encourage others. His transparency, combined with his roles in Dawson’s Creek, Varsity Blues, and later projects, left a legacy of vulnerability and resilience.

couriermail.com.au

James Van Der Beek dead at 48 after colorectal cancer battle | The Courier Mail

On the family front, Van Der Beek prioritized time with Kimberly and their six children—Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah—on their Texas farm. Photos from happier times show the actor surrounded by his kids, embodying the joy he fought to preserve. Kimberly’s strength in caring for him through treatments and his final days has been lauded by friends.

people.com

How Heartbreak Led James Van Der Beek and Wife Kimberly to Move Kids to Austin, Texas

The outpouring of support includes a GoFundMe that has surpassed $2 million for medical expenses and family needs. Co-stars and fans continue to reflect on Van Der Beek’s influence, with many noting how his quiet dignity inspired them during difficult times.

In these final shared moments—embraces, sunsets, and laughter—friends have given the world a lasting portrait of James Van Der Beek: not defined by illness, but by the love he inspired and received. As Ribeiro said, the grief is immediate, but so is the gratitude for the life he lived.