Michelle Williams reflects on James Van DerBeek’s passing and legacy. [Image Source: USMAGAZINE]
Michelle Williams spoke publicly for the first time about the death of her Dawson’s Creek co-star James Van Der Beek during an interview at the 2026 SAG Actor Awards in Los Angeles on March 1. Addressing the emotional impact of Van Der Beek’s passing, Williams shared her thoughts on the loss and the support shown by the public, highlighting the deep connection she maintained with her former colleague. Her remarks centered around both personal grief and gratitude toward those helping Van Der Beek’s family after his death.
Williams Shares Gratitude for Support to Van Der Beek’s Family
In the interview with Entertainment Tonight, Williams expressed ongoing concern for Van Der Beek’s family, stating,
“I’m thinking about him and I’m thinking about his family constantly,”
reflecting the weight of the loss she feels. Van Der Beek died at age 48 on February 11 following a battle with cancer. Williams, known for her role as Jen Lindley opposite Van Der Beek’s Dawson Leery on the WB series Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003), also took time to acknowledge the generosity of those who contributed to a GoFundMe set up to support Van Der Beek’s widow and their children.
She said,
“I also just want to say, like, it’s been such an amazing thing as James’ friend and a friend of the family to see the response in the wake of his passing and I just really want to say thank you to each and every person who contributed to sustaining their life and their children’s lives,”
adding,
“It’s an incredibly meaningful thing to witness.”
The Family’s Announcement and GoFundMe Effort
James Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, announced his passing on social media on February 11. She shared,
Image of: Michelle Williams
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,”
later requesting privacy during the family’s grieving process:
“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.”
Following the announcement, a GoFundMe campaign was quickly launched to assist Kimberly and their six children. The page described Van Der Beek as
“a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,”
while noting the family’s financial and emotional hardships during his cancer battle. By the time of this report, the fundraiser had raised $2.75 million, significantly exceeding its $1.5 million goal.
Williams Marks First Public Appearance Since Tragic Loss
Michelle Williams’s appearance at the Actor Awards served as her first public statement since Van Der Beek’s death. There, she was honored with the Best Actress in a Limited Series award for her role in FX’s Dying For Sex. The grief over Van Der Beek’s passing was palpable amid the celebration of her achievement.
Earlier, after Van Der Beek revealed in November 2024 that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, Williams spoke about the ongoing contact she maintained with him. In April 2025, she told Entertainment Tonight that she supported Van Der Beek “in every and all ways.”
Williams Organizes Dawson’s Creek Reunion for Charity
In an effort to honor Van Der Beek and raise awareness, Williams organized a reunion of their Dawson’s Creek cast. Van Der Beek was unable to attend due to a stomach virus, but the gathering aimed to bolster fundraising for F Cancer, a nonprofit dedicated to funding cancer research. Williams reflected on their shared history, stating,
“We grew up in Capeside and that’s a bond that will last a lifetime. We wanted to gather around our dear friend James and remind him that we are all here. We always have been and we always will be. And I know the fans of Dawson’s Creek feel the same way.”
Public Impact and Continuing Remembrance
The outpouring of support following Van Der Beek’s death demonstrates the profound effect he had both personally and professionally. Williams’s thoughtful comments and the fundraising efforts highlight the close bonds formed among the Dawson’s Creek cast and their community. As the family continues to cope with their loss, public generosity plays a crucial role in sustaining them during this difficult time.
Looking ahead, the legacy of Van Der Beek’s life and his influence on fans, colleagues, and loved ones remains a poignant reminder of the impact of cancer and the importance of collective support in moments of tragedy.
Michelle Williams says she's thinking about her ‘Dawson’s Creek’ co-star James Van Der Beek and his family “constantly” since his passing in February. #ActorAwardspic.twitter.com/UeSUAWTzvD
