Michelle Williams is deeply reflecting on the loss of her Dawson’s Creek co-star James Van Der Beek, who passed away last month at the age of 48. The actress spoke openly about her grief and memories in the wake of his death while addressing the public during her recent win at the Actor Awards.
Remembering James Van Der Beek and Supporting His Family
Following the tragic news, Michelle Williams shared with Entertainment Tonight that she has been
thinking about him and … about his family constantly.
Williams emphasized the importance of community during this difficult time as she highlighted the overwhelming support for the family.
She further expressed appreciation for the public’s response to a GoFundMe campaign established to assist Van Der Beek’s widow and their six children after his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
I also just want to say it’s been such an amazing thing as James is a friend and a friend of the family to see the response in the wake of his passing,
Williams said. She added,
I just really want to say thank you to each and every person who has contributed to sustaining their lives and their children’s lives. It’s an incredibly meaningful thing to witness.
The fundraising initiative, intended to cover
the costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer,
has raised over $2.7 million as of Monday, providing critical support during the family’s time of loss and financial strain.
The Announcement of Van Der Beek’s Passing and Public Reactions
The actor’s wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, officially announced his death on February 11.
Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,
she stated via social media. She requested understanding and privacy with the words,
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 the days following, many of Van Der Beek’s close Dawson’s Creek co-stars honored his memory. Katie Holmes wrote a heartfelt note expressing the impact he had on her.
Katie Holmes Reflects on Her Late Co-Actor’s Legacy
Holmes opened her tribute by acknowledging the special bond shared through their creative work, writing,
James, thank you. To share a space with your imagination is sacred — breathing the same air in the land of make believe and trusting that each other’s hearts are safe in their expression,
capturing the unique connection among the cast.
She nostalgically recalled moments with Van Der Beek, sharing,
These are some of the memories, along with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs — adventures of a unique youth.
Praising his personal qualities, Holmes described Van Der Beek as a figure of compassion, bravery, selflessness and strength. She continued,
An appreciation for life with the integrity that life is art — creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children — the journey of a hero.
In closing her reflection, Holmes expressed both sorrow and gratitude, saying she grieves
with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it,
and extended support to his family:
We are here for you always. And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion.
The Lasting Impact of James Van Der Beek’s Life and Career
James Van Der Beek’s passing has sparked an outpouring of affection from friends, fans, and colleagues alike. Michelle Williams on Van Der Beek’s death demonstrates the profound effect he had on those around him, both personally and professionally. The substantial funds raised and heartfelt tributes reflect the enduring legacy he leaves behind, particularly as a devoted husband and father.
As the family continues to navigate their grief, the support surrounding them offers hope and comfort. The story of Van Der Beek’s courage during his fight with cancer and the bond among his co-stars reminds many of the preciousness of life, community, and compassion during hardship.
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. #ActorAwards pic.twitter.com/UeSUAWTzvD
— Entertainment Tonight (@etnow) March 2, 2026
