James Van Der Beek’s heartbreaking 2023 video telling his loved ones how to grieve goes viral after his death

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As someone who often talks about navigating life’s challenges, I’ve been really moved by a video resurfacing from James Van Der Beek. It’s from 2023, and he bravely discusses grief. Sadly, it’s gained renewed attention after his recent passing from cancer at just 48 years old. It’s a powerful reminder that even those who seem to have it all together experience profound sadness, and it’s okay to talk about it.

The actor best known for his role in Dawson’s Creek and a father of six, died on Wednesday in hospice care after a two-year fight with colon cancer.

After the news of the popular actor’s passing, a video he made last year about coping with the loss of his mother quickly spread online. Fans shared the touching clip, where he offered advice on dealing with grief.

On July 13, 2020, James revealed that his mother, Melinda – a gymnastics teacher who he credited with inspiring his acting career – had passed away. He marked the third anniversary of her death by sharing a video encouraging people who are grieving to allow themselves to feel their emotions.

In a heartfelt message, he shared that today marks the third anniversary of his mother’s passing. He noted that he and many of his friends are now at an age where they’re experiencing similar losses, and he wanted to share the advice he often gives to those who are grieving.

A post shared by James Van Der Beek (@vanderjames)

Going through this will likely be confusing and emotionally challenging. It unfolds naturally, in its own time, so try not to criticize or question the feelings that surface.

It’s natural to feel sadness and pain, and there’s no way to avoid those feelings. You might also experience anger, regret, or even relief, and a whole range of other emotions…

Instead of questioning your feelings or wishing they were different, simply let them surface naturally, one layer at a time. You’ll likely encounter many well-meaning people who claim to understand exactly what you’re experiencing.

It’s not a simple yes or no. Each person’s relationship with their parents is different and often complex, and grieving the loss of a parent is a uniquely personal and complicated experience for everyone.

I tell people I hope they experience a full and natural grieving process, understanding that it will unfold at its own pace, regardless of what they or others might wish for.

Everyone else will move forward with their lives, and then something small and silly will unexpectedly upset you, bringing on strong feelings. Just let those feelings be, and I truly sympathize with what you’re going through.

The post quickly received a lot of comments from fans. Many people found the clip and shared messages like, ‘This is really insightful. Thanks for the helpful advice! I checked out your other videos and this one was exactly what I needed…’

We are deeply saddened to hear about your loss. He was a loving husband and father, and we’re sending our heartfelt sympathy, support, and prayers to your family. We hope you find strength and comfort during this incredibly challenging time.

It’s so hard to say goodbye to James. He meant the world to so many of us, and I’ll miss him terribly. I can only imagine how relieved and happy his mom must have been to see him one last time. Thinking about family makes me long to be reunited with my own wife – I’m counting down the days until I can see her again.

She sadly passed away from cancer at the age of 43 in 2025. While it’s hard to accept, it’s comforting to know we don’t have to live forever, and she’s now reunited with loved ones. May she rest in peace, and our thoughts are with her and her mother. We love and will miss her dearly, and she is now with her mom.

James Van Der Beek’s family announced his death on Wednesday with a heartfelt message on Instagram. They shared that he passed away peacefully and faced his final days with courage, faith, and grace.

We have many cherished memories of his kindness, his deep care for others, and his appreciation for every moment. We will share more about that later. Right now, we kindly request privacy as we mourn the loss of our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend.

 He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children.

The actor and his wife have six children: daughters Olivia (15), Annabel (12), Emilia (9), and Gwendolyn (7), and sons Joshua (13) and Jeremiah (4).

Jennifer Garner, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Lucy Hale, Christie Brinkley, and Rumer Willis showed their support by liking the family’s post.

A GoFundMe campaign was started on Wednesday to raise $500,000 to support the Van Der Beek family.

Kimberly shared on Instagram that her friends made a link to help her and her children through a difficult time, expressing both thankfulness and sadness.

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2026-02-12 12:06