Chad Michael Murray, ‘Dawson’s Creek’ stars react to James Van Der Beek’s death as friends launch GoFundMe

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James Van Der Beek, best known for his role as a teenager in the popular 1990s TV show “Dawson’s Creek,” passed away on Wednesday at the age of 48. Friends and colleagues from the entertainment industry have shared their memories and condolences.

I was really saddened to hear about James Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, sharing the news on Instagram. She asked for privacy as their family grieves, and it’s heartbreaking to think about the loss of a husband, father, son, brother, and friend. It’s a tough time, and they deserve all the space they need.

He faced his final days bravely, with strong faith and dignity. A statement shared that he had many thoughts about how he wanted things done, his deep care for others, and the importance of making the most of life. The statement concluded by saying that details about these wishes would be shared at a later time.

The actor announced he was fighting colorectal cancer in November 2024. His friends started a GoFundMe to help with expenses, and by Wednesday afternoon, it had raised nearly $340,000 of its $550,000 target.

Following the actor’s passing, Van Der Beek’s wife and their six children are in a difficult financial situation. The medical bills have depleted their savings, and they are striving to remain in their home, according to a GoFundMe page.

It was really touching to see so many actors share their condolences in the comments. Even Chad Michael Murray, who I remember from both ‘Dawson’s Creek’ and ‘One Tree Hill’, chimed in – it’s clear how much respect there was for the guy.

Television

I’m incredibly saddened to report the passing of James Van Der Beek, best known as Dawson Leery from the beloved series ‘Dawson’s Creek.’ He was only 48. It’s hard to believe, but he’ll always be remembered for that role alongside Katie Holmes’ Joey Potter – a real staple of 90s television.

It’s just heartbreaking to hear about James. As Murray said, he was a true giant – not just in what he did, but as a person. He really inspired all of us to strive to be better, in every aspect of our lives. We’re all sending our deepest condolences and keeping his family in our thoughts.

Kerr Smith, who starred alongside Van Der Beek in “Dawson’s Creek,” also paid tribute to the actor.

Smith shared a heartfelt message online, saying he was incredibly thankful for their brotherly bond with James and would miss him very much. He finished with a message of peace: ‘Rest easy.’

Stacy Keibler, a former wrestler and cheerleader, felt incredibly blessed to be with Van Der Beek during his last moments, calling it “a true gift from God.”

Keibler shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying that she learned more about living in the moment from this person than from any book. They also taught her to have faith in God’s plan, even—and especially—when things are painful.

Keibler wrote that even while facing cancer and traveling the world through difficult times, her smile never faded.

Austin Nichols, known for his roles in shows like “One Tree Hill” and a smaller part in “Varsity Blues,” shared a tribute to Van Der Beek on Instagram.

According to Nichols, James was someone to look up to. He was an even better friend, husband, and father, and he will be deeply missed.

Television

The adults in Kevin Williamson’s new Netflix series are more complex and realistic than the characters viewers may recall from his earlier show, ‘Dawson’s Creek.’

As a big fan of ‘Dancing With the Stars,’ I was really saddened to hear about the passing of James Van Der Beek. Emma Slater, who was his dance partner a few seasons back, shared how heartbroken she was, and said he’ll always be like family to her. It’s just really touching to see how close they became during the show.

Slater shared a heartfelt message saying, “I love you so much, James.” They expressed immense pride in the person James was and were thankful for the chance to say goodbye.

Roger Avary, the director of the 2002 film “The Rules of Attraction” which featured Van Der Beek, shared on X that the actor had been a source of great support for him and his family through a difficult period.

The pair had recently had “a very philosophical and existential phone conversation, Avary wrote.

Avary shared that James was one of a kind, and they had a remarkably close working relationship. He expressed deep sadness at James’s passing, sending his condolences and prayers to James’s family. He finished with a heartfelt message: ‘God bless you, James. I will always love you.’

Stars like Eric Stonestreet from “Modern Family,” Tyler Posey of “Teen Wolf,” and Kate Walsh from “Grey’s Anatomy” offered their support to the family by sharing condolences on their Instagram post.

Sarah Michelle Gellar, best known as the star of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” expressed her deep sadness for the family of the deceased, acknowledging the significant loss felt not only by them but by everyone. She also shared a message of frustration with cancer in a comment on the announcement of his death.

Joseph Kahn, who collaborated with Justin Van Der Beek on the fan film “Power/Rangers” (a take on the Power Rangers series), posted a tribute to the actor on X.

Kahn described a moment in a scene where the actor raised his foot onto the table, and the camera rotated with the movement. Kahn blocked the shot and then performed for the camera, at which point the actor smiled, showing he understood. Kahn expressed gratitude for the actor’s generosity and support, thanking him by name, James.

Marlee Matlin posted on X, expressing her sadness over the passing of James Van Der Beek. Although they never worked directly together, both actors appeared as guests on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and participated in a 2020 Paley Center for Media event celebrating the show.

Paul Walter Hauser posted on Instagram about the funds he helped collect to support James Van Der Beek’s cancer treatment.

Hauser expressed their condolences, saying they imagine the recipient is now surrounded by love in Heaven. They shared that the Van Der Beeks will be kept in their thoughts and prayers, and they plan to raise funds to help the family. Hauser also thanked the person for their contributions and remembered them as a kind and decent person.

Jennifer Garner expressed her sympathy, writing, “This is such a sad loss. Sending all my love to Kimberly and her children as they cope with this difficult time.”

Van Der Beek most recently appeared in the Tubi films “Sidelined: The QB and Me” and its sequel, released last year. He played Leroy Lahey, the father of the main character, Drayton, who was portrayed by Noah Beck.

Beck shared a post on Instagram praising Van Der Beek, calling him an amazing mentor.

Beck shared a heartfelt tribute to James, describing him as exceptionally kind, caring, and talented. She praised him as a wonderful father and an inspiring person, expressing immense gratitude for having known him and worked alongside him as if he were her own father.

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2026-02-12 01:32