James Van Der Beek’s Ex-Wife, Heather McComb Opens Up About His Death, Says, ‘I Sit Here In..’

James Van Der Beek’s death at the age of 48 has left his fans, friends, and former loved ones heartbroken. The actor passed away after a more than three-year-long battle with colorectal cancer. James’s wife, Kimberly, confirmed his death and described him as an ideal partner and a compassionate person whose presence left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Among the ones who are now mourning his death are his former wife, Heather McComb, who has now spoken publicly about her grief and the wonderful bond they shared despite the end of their marriage. Here’s what she said. 

Heather McComb Shares an emotional tribute for her ex-husband, James Van Der Beek, after his death 

Heather McComb recently took to her Instagram on February 12, 2026, to express her heartbreak after the death of James. She expressed her gratitude to everyone who reached out to her and admitted that she felt overwhelmed by the news. The actress revealed that despite their separation in 2009, they continued to share a meaningful and respectful bond for years until his death. Heather also expressed her compassion for James’ immediate family, including his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children. In her words: 

“This is how I will always see James, innocent, kind, and pure of heart. What a journey we shared over the years. I sit here in immense gratitude for the special connection, friendship, and love that James and I shared that has endured through decades.”

Heather called his family beautiful and highlighted that they would feel a great sense of loss at the occasion. Her words showcased her sorrow over James’s death and admiration for the family he built with the love of his life, Kimberly. Along with the kind words, she shared photographs from her 21st birthday, taken long before James rose to international fame. Heather described him as “innocent, kind, and pure of heart,” and said she would always cherish the memories they created together. Sharing her feelings, she penned:

“I will treasure the last loving words we exchanged. James was a beautiful soul filled with so much light, love, talent, humor, depth, sensitivity, knowledge, and a deep love of God that shone through him. He shone so bright yet was so humble and human. Always searching, always growing, always going deeper, always chasing things outside his comfort zone.”

See the post here.

Who is Heather McComb, and how did she and James Van Der Beek fall in love?

Heather McComb is a well-known TV actress who is known for her roles in shows such as Party of Five, Profiler, CSI, and Ray Donovan. She began her acting career at a young age and went on to build a steady presence in television and film. She also made history years ago by becoming the first actress to portray the Marvel character ‘Jubilee’ in the 1996 TV film, Generation X.

Heather had met James in the early 2000s through professional circles connected to his then-hit show, Dawson’s Creek. They soon developed a bond and eventually tied the knot at a young age on July 5, 2003, in Malibu, surrounded by close friends and colleagues. At the time, James was at the peak of his fame, but the couple largely kept their personal life private. Furthermore, they continued to pursue their respective careers. 

What led to Heather McComb’s divorce from James Van Der Beek?  

After nearly seven years of marriage, James and Heather announced their separation in April 2009. They eventually finalised their divorce in 2010. According to reports and statements from his representatives at the time, they parted ways on amicable terms and continued to live their lives peacefully. Irreconcilable differences led to the divorce, and neither party publicly blamed the other. Later, James married Kimberly Van Der Beek in 2010, and they built a large and loving family of 6, eventually settling in Texas, where James focused on family life while continuing his acting career. 

Rest in peace, James Van Der Beek.

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