Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek told fans that he was hoping to ‘recover and rest’ in the weeks leading up to his tragic death after battling colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek shared a heartbreaking message just weeks before his death. The Dawson’s Creek star, 48, tragically died on Wednesday, aged 48, after battling colorectal cancer.
But in the weeks leading up to his sad death, James, who also starred in The Big Bang and Labour Day, told his online followers that he was planning to “recover and rest”. In a video shared on his Instagram page, he said: “Anyone else out there finding that your New Year’s resolution was impossible to keep? I’m going to say something: I don’t think it’s your fault.”
In the video, shared on January 15, he went on to add: “Why are we celebrating a new year in the dead of winter? Why are we celebrating new beginnings at a time when nature rests? I’m going to take winter to recover, to rest, and I’m going to make New Year’s resolutions in the spring. Who’s with me?”
He continued: “Animals are hibernating! Birds fly south for the winter! The time to celebrate a new beginning, and a new you, and a new resolution, is in the spring, at the vernal equinox, when the flowers bloom, and it gets warmer, and the birds return.
“That’s how nature does it. Why are we fighting nature?” In another snap, shared just days later, James spoke candidly about his family, mainly his daughter and his father, who shared the same birthday.
Sharing images of them both, he wrote: “My father and my daughter share a birthday today. At first, I thought that was all they shared – they seemed so different to me. But as the two of you have evolved, and let more of who you are shine through, I can recognise the same open, warm, loving, gentle heart.
“I see the care and dedication you shower upon those you love most. I see the same out-of-the-box Aquarian creativity and originality. And you both make every room you’re in more fun. Different senses of humour, but you both have a way of alchemising the vibe around you in such a subtle way one can almost miss how powerfully you do this.
“In this crazy world, it’s a wonder to me that you’ve managed to stay so open, so tender, and so genuinely good. You are marvels… And I’m so insanely grateful to have you in my life. The world is a better place because the two of you are in it. Happy birthday, guys. I love you with all my heart.”
On Wednesday, James’ widow, Kimberly, announced the heartbreaking news that he had died. Sharing a portrait image of the late actor, she said: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.
“There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
In an additional statement, Kimberly said: “James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026, leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children. Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time. The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.” The family have since launched a GoFundMe to help them cover costs.
For more information or support about bowel cancer, you can contact Macmillan Cancer Support or you can call 020 7940 1760 for advice.
If you have been affected by this story, Cruse Bereavement Support offers free help to make sense of how you are feeling. Click here for their website or call 0808 808 1677.
Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: mirror.co.uk
