Michelle Williams has publicly addressed the death of her Dawson’s Creek co-star James Van Der Beek for the first time since his passing. Speaking on Sunday night at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, Williams shared her thoughts about her late friend and collaborator after receiving an Actor Award for her role in the TV miniseries Dying for Sex. The actress expressed her ongoing concern and support for Van Der Beek’s family during this difficult time.
Williams Honors Van Der Beek and Supports Family Fundraiser
Backstage with Entertainment Tonight, Williams spoke candidly about her feelings. She said,
“I’m thinking about him and I’m thinking about his family constantly,”
illustrating her deep grief and connection to Van Der Beek’s loved ones. Having co-starred as Jen Lindley alongside Van Der Beek’s Dawson Leery in the popular teen drama, she thanked those who contributed to the GoFundMe initiative established to assist Van Der Beek’s widow and children.
“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,”
she added, continuing,
“It’s an incredibly meaningful thing to witness.”
Fundraiser Surpasses Goals as Williams Makes First Public Appearance Since Loss
The fundraiser for Van Der Beek’s family originally aimed to raise $1.5 million but has now exceeded $2.75 million, reflecting the outpouring of support from fans and the community. This tribute came amid Williams’ first public appearance since Van Der Beek’s death, where she was honored with the Best Actress in a Limited Series award. Van Der Beek, who was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023, passed away on February 11 at age 48.
Remembering Van Der Beek Through Dawson’s Creek Cast Reunion
In September 2023, Williams reunited with Dawson’s Creek castmates, including Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, Mary-Margaret Humes, Kerr Smith, and Busy Philipps, for a live table reading of the show’s pilot episode in New York City aimed at raising funds for F Cancer. Van Der Beek was initially scheduled to attend but withdrew due to illness, with Lin-Manuel Miranda stepping in as his replacement. Williams played a key role in producing the event alongside her husband, Thomas Kail.
Legacy and Impact of Michelle Williams on Van Der Beek
Williams’ open remarks highlight the enduring bond shared by the Dawson’s Creek cast and the tight-knit support for Van Der Beek’s family in the wake of his untimely death. The successful fundraising effort and collective mourning underscore the significant impact he had on colleagues and fans alike. As Williams continues her career, her tribute offers a poignant reminder of the community’s resolve to honor Van Der Beek’s memory and provide for his loved ones in the future.
