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In a poignant and heartfelt tribute, Jared Van Der Beek has opened up about the profound loss of his brother, James Van Der Beek. The beloved Dawson’s Creek actor passed away on February 11 at the age of 48, following a courageous battle with stage III colorectal cancer.
Taking to Instagram on February 13, Jared, who is 47, expressed the deep sorrow and emptiness he feels since his brother’s passing. “There’s a unique and irreplaceable bond between brothers, and just two days ago, that connection was severed,” he shared. “Now I truly understand why it’s called heartbreak when you lose someone so dear.”
Jared continued, “The devastation and pain are unimaginable, and I never anticipated how deeply it would hurt.” His words resonate with anyone who has faced the loss of a loved one, capturing the raw and overwhelming emotions that accompany such a tragedy.
Kerr Smith, who starred alongside James in Dawson’s Creek, also expressed his sorrow at the loss of his former co-star. “I’m incredibly grateful for the moments shared with James and proud to have called him a brother,” Smith, 53, commented on the Instagram post announcing Van Der Beek’s passing. “His absence will be deeply felt. Rest easy,” he added, alongside a simple red heart, symbolizing the love and respect he held for his friend.
Kerr Smith is mourning the death of former Dawson’s Creek costar James Van Der Beek. “I’m so grateful for being able to call James a brother. I’ll miss him deeply. Rest easy,” Smith, 53, wrote alongside a red heart in the comments section of the Instagram post announcing Van Der Beek’s death on Wednesday, February […]
Alongside a carousel of throwback photos of their family over the years, Jared paid tribute to James and shared more details of their close connection.
“He was my person, the one I went to for any and all things. I’ve looked up to him since I was born. He has never failed to be there for me whenever I needed him,” Jared wrote.
He continued: “It has been wonderful reading and seeing how he touched so many lives not because of something he did, but because of who he was. He shared with an open heart and with his wise soul. As painful as this pain deep in the heart is, the healing has already begun with all the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. I truly thank all of you have taken the time to reach out, letting me know that you’re there. The community of people who were intimately involved in his passing were nothing short of amazing. Thank you to everyone known and unknown who helped his transition be as beautiful as possible.”
Concluding the post, Jared said he missed James and will always love him.
“James, I already miss your physical being and your words of wisdom over the phone. Yet, I also feel your presence so strongly and I know you will continue to be guiding me,” he wrote. “Thank you for living your life with me. I love you.”
Followers shared their support for Jared in the comments section, including James’ former Dawson’s Creek costar Kerr Smith.
“Jared…I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m still having trouble processing all of this,” Smith, 53, wrote. “I can’t even imagine what you’re going through. Please know you’re in my thoughts. ❤️🙏😢”
Family friend Erin Fetherston added, “This is so beautiful Jared. You were there for him in the most incredible way. What a gift it was to witness your brotherhood. God bless you and your family ❤️.”
The Dawson’s Creek cast is mourning the death of their costar James Van Der Beek following his death at age 48. Van Der Beek’s family confirmed on Wednesday, February 11, that the actor, who portrayed the titular character on the hit ‘90s teen drama, had died following a battle with colorectal cancer. “Our beloved James […]
James’ death was announced via a statement made via his social media accounts on Wednesday.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” the statement read. “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 wake of his death, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to raise funds for his widow Kimberly Van Der Beek and the couple’s six children.