In his final weeks, James Van Der Beek faced illness with quiet faith and remarkable strength, surrounded by family and close friends who helped fill his last days with love and peace. His wife, Kimberly, announced that he passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, after a long battle with cancer. Friends later shared heartfelt tributes and personal memories, revealing the deeply human moments that marked his farewell. Stacy Keibler recalled watching sunsets with him, cherishing every quiet second together, while designer Erin Fetherston shared tender bedside memories, remembering him not as a celebrity but as beloved family. Actor Mehcad Brooks described holding his friend’s hand, praying, singing, and joking with him, calling it one of the greatest honors of his life and praising the grace with which Van Der Beek faced his final transition.

Even as his health declined, Van Der Beek remained connected to fans and colleagues. Too ill to attend the 2025 Dawson’s Creek reunion in person, he appeared through a prerecorded message that moved audiences deeply. Though visibly weakened, he expressed gratitude to his castmates and the fans who supported the show for years, turning the reunion into an emotional celebration of shared memories. His wife and children attended in his place, joining the cast in a tribute that honored both his career and his enduring spirit. Today, friends, family, and fans remember not only his iconic roles but also his kindness, humility, and devotion to those he loved, celebrating a life that touched many far beyond the screen.