James’ last post on Instagram appeared on January 26. The actor dedicated it to two dear people – his daughter Annabel and his father James, who were born on the same day.
The congratulatory words were accompanied by two photos, one of which featured James himself. He was dressed in a cozy sweater and hat, and held his birthday daughter to his chest, who was holding his hand. In another shot, his father is captured with his granddaughter.
“My father and daughter are celebrating their birthday. At first I thought that was all they had in common – they seemed so different to me.”
But as you both grow and let who you are shine more and more, I can see the same open, warm, loving, gentle heart. I see the care and dedication you give to those you love most. I see the same unconventional water creativity and originality. And you both make every room you’re in more fun. Different senses of humor, but you both know how to alchemize the atmosphere around you so subtly that it’s almost impossible not to notice how powerfully you do it.
“In this crazy world, I’m amazed that you’ve managed to remain so open, gentle, and genuinely kind,” James Van Der Beek wrote.
We remind you that the man died after a serious illness – he had been treated for stage 3 colorectal cancer for a long time.
James’ death was announced on Instagram by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning,” Kimberly wrote. “He faced his final days with courage and hope. There is much more to share, both about his wishes and his love for humanity. Those days will come. And now we ask for peace and privacy as we mourn the loss of our beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
James and Kimberly had six children (daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah).
He first announced his cancer diagnosis in November 2024.
