Joshua Jackson recently addressed the passing of his former Dawson’s Creek co-star, James Van Der Beek, who died at the age of 48. Jackson spoke about his grief during a Tuesday appearance on the Today show, expressing that the mourning process for Van Der Beek is ongoing. He noted that the personal impact of the loss hits him differently now that he is a father.
Reflections on a Formative Time
Jackson reminisced about the remarkable experiences he shared with Van Der Beek during the show’s six seasons, which aired from 1998 to 2003. He characterized that period as formative for both actors. “We look back on that time with great fondness,” he stated. However, he emphasized that Van Der Beek’s legacy goes beyond their shared experiences.
A Tribute to Character
In his tribute, Jackson praised Van Der Beek for being a “good man” with a strong belief system. He spoke about Van Der Beek’s unwavering grace in facing adversity, highlighting his role as a devoted husband and father. “The tragedy of that loss for his family is enormous,” Jackson remarked. This sentiment underscores the profound impact of Van Der Beek’s character and values.
Van Der Beek’s Death
James Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, following a battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer. His wife, Kimberly, made the announcement through a heartfelt Instagram post, noting that he faced his final days courageously. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” she wrote.
Community Support
In the aftermath of his death, friends of Van Der Beek established a GoFundMe campaign to support his family. The campaign aimed to alleviate the emotional and financial burdens facing Kimberly and their six children. Donations have been overwhelmingly positive, surpassing $2.6 million, with prominent contributions from figures like Steven Spielberg and Zoe Saldana.
- GoFundMe raised over $2.6 million for Van Der Beek’s family.
- Initial goal was set at $1.5 million.
- Over 50,000 donations received from the community.
Messages from Co-Stars
Co-stars, including Katie Holmes, have shared touching messages in tribute to Van Der Beek. Holmes expressed her gratitude for the time spent with him, reflecting on their bond and the memories they created together. Her heartfelt message emphasized the impact Van Der Beek had on those around him.
In summary, Joshua Jackson’s comments on the passing of James Van Der Beek highlight the ongoing grief felt by his loved ones. The support from the community and fond memories shared by co-stars serve as a testament to Van Der Beek’s lasting legacy in the hearts of many.
