Demi Moore joined the growing number of celebrities expressing profound sorrow following the death of actor James Van Der Beek, who passed away at 48 on Wednesday. The Landman actress shared an emotional tribute on social media, reflecting on their friendship and Van Der Beek’s lasting impact.
Moore posted two nostalgic photos with the Dawson’s Creek star on her Instagram Stories the day after his passing, paired with a moving message that highlighted both his professional achievements and his dedication to family.
Demi Moore Honors a Cherished Friend and Actor
In her tribute, Moore described James Van Der Beek as
“a cherished friend to our family.”
She acknowledged the significant loss to both the entertainment industry and those close to him, stating:
“James was a cherished friend to our family. The world has lost an extraordinary actor, but more importantly, a devoted husband, loving father, and loyal friend. Our hearts are truly broken.” – Demi Moore, Actress
This acknowledgement underscored Van Der Beek’s multi-faceted identity beyond his acting career, emphasizing his roles as husband and father.
Co-stars and Friends Pay Their Respects
Van Der Beek’s former co-stars from the show Don’t Trust the B**** in Apartment 23, Krysten Ritter and Dreama Walker, also took to social media to honor his memory. Ritter described the news of his death as “really hard” and praised his qualities and talents.
“Really hard news today. Beautiful human inside and out. Smart, funny, empathic, kind, talented and just pure magic. I’m so grateful for our friendship and so heartbroken. All my love goes out to his amazing wife Kimberly and their children. Love you so much James and fake James.” – Krysten Ritter, Actress
Alongside her words, Ritter shared various throwback photos of herself and Van Der Beek, capturing memories of their time together on set.
Dreama Walker expressed her grief with a simple but heartfelt message over a video of Van Der Beek discussing mortality:
“My heart hurts so much today.” – Dreama Walker, Actress
Tributes from Other Colleagues and Friends
Melissa Joan Hart recalled her first on-screen kiss with Van Der Beek during his guest appearance on Clarissa Explains It All. She conveyed her heartbreak and admiration for his role as a father and friend.
“I’m heartbroken to hear that @vanderjames has passed away! He was truly a nice guy, a great father, wonderful actor and will always be my first on screen kiss when he guest starred on #ClarissaExplainsItAll. Gone way too soon but it seems like he put up one hell of a fight. We ran into each other at the singing game show #WeAreFamily about two years ago when he sang a song with his daughter, encouraging her like a good dad does. My thoughts and prayers go out to his 6 kids, his wife and family!” – Melissa Joan Hart, Actress
Her friend Danica McKellar succinctly described Van Der Beek as
“a beautiful soul and tragic loss,”
reflecting the heavy emotional toll his death has taken on those around him.
Emma Slater, Van Der Beek’s Dancing With the Stars partner in 2019, revealed her devastation at his passing and the deep familial bond they developed.
“I’m so devastated. He is and will always be family to me. Love you so much James. The man that you are, you can be proud of. So grateful that I got to be there to say goodbye to you.” – Emma Slater, Professional Dancer
Katie Holmes Remembers Shared Adventures and Offers Support
Katie Holmes, who famously portrayed Joey Potter opposite Van Der Beek’s Dawson on Dawson’s Creek, issued a touching handwritten message expressing her grief and gratitude for the times they shared.
Holmes reflected on their professional journey and their youthful experiences together, highlighting the qualities she admired most about James.
“I formed some words with a heavy heart. This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’ journey. He is beloved.” – Katie Holmes, Actress
She went on to describe their connection through shared laughter, conversations about life, Fond memories of James Taylor songs, and the “adventures of a unique youth.” Holmes praised his bravery, compassion, and strength, as well as his dedication to building a loving family.
“Bravery. Compassion. Selflessness. Strength. An appreciation for life and the action taken to live life with the integrity that life is art – creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children – the journey of a Hero. I mourn this loss with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it. To Kimberly and the children, we are here for you always. And will always be there to shower you with Love and compassion.” – Katie Holmes, Actress
Sarah Michelle Gellar and Chad Michael Murray’s Emotional Tributes
Sarah Michelle Gellar acknowledged the enduring impact of Van Der Beek’s work and his family’s loss on Instagram.
“I’m so sad for your beautiful family. While James’ legacy will always live on, this is a huge loss to not just your family but the world. F*** Cancer.” – Sarah Michelle Gellar, Actress
Chad Michael Murray offered condolences, emphasizing how Van Der Beek’s creativity and humanity inspired those who knew him.
“Sending love and light to your beautiful family. James was a giant. We’re so so so sorry for what you’re going through. His words, art and humanity inspired all of us – he inspired us to be better in all ways. God bless you guys.” – Chad Michael Murray, Actor
Alfonso Ribeiro Reflects on Friendship and Courage
Alfonso Ribeiro, known for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, described his close personal bond with Van Der Beek and the lessons learned during the actor’s battle with cancer.
“I’m so broken right now with the passing of my friend @vanderjames today. He was my true friend brother and life guide. I was with him through this horrible journey to beat cancer. His family and friends went on this roller coaster ride. The highs when it looked like he had it beat to the breaking lows of it coming back. I’ve learned so much from James. He and @vanderkimberly changed my life. I will forever be in debt for all they’ve given me and my family. He will live forever in my heart. I will always be there for their children.” – Alfonso Ribeiro, Actor
Family and Community Rally as James Van Der Beek Battles Cancer
James Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023 and endured a long, courageous fight that ended with his passing on February 11, 2026, as confirmed by his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek.
Kimberly shared a heartfelt message on Instagram announcing his peaceful passing and asking for privacy during a time of grief.
“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.” – Kimberly Van Der Beek, Widow
To support the family amidst financial difficulties brought on by prolonged medical expenses, friends have set up a GoFundMe aimed at easing their financial burden.
GoFundMe Campaign Seeks to Aid Van Der Beek’s Family Through Difficult Times
The fundraising page details the ongoing challenges faced by Kimberly and their six children in the aftermath of James’ death, highlighting the emotional and economic strain the family continues to endure.
It calls on the community to provide assistance for everyday living costs, bills, and educational expenses to help the family regain stability.
The appeal states that James’s enduring legacy touched many lives, and their support will help his family rebuild and find hope amid loss.
The Enduring Legacy of James Van Der Beek
James Van Der Beek’s passing marks a significant loss for Hollywood and the countless individuals he inspired through his work and character. The overwhelming outpouring of admiration and grief from fellow actors, friends, and family underscores the impact he had beyond his roles on screen.
The heartfelt tributes reveal a man remembered not only for his artistic contributions but also for his qualities as a devoted father, husband, and friend. As his loved ones navigate their grief, the community’s support will be vital in preserving the stability of his family.
Looking ahead, the public and his close circle hold on to the hope that Van Der Beek’s spirit and legacy will continue to influence many, reminding the world of the fragility of life and the enduring power of compassion.
