Kimberly Van Der Beek has shared a heartbreakibg post on Father’s Day(Image: @vanderkimberly/Instagram)
James Van Der Beek’s wife has marked the first Father’s Day since his passing. The actor, best known for starring in the title role of 1990s teen drama Dawson’s Creek alongside Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson, passed away in February at the age of 48 following a battle with cancer.
On Sunday 21 June, mother-of-six Kimberly, 44, who was married to James from 2010 until his death and has Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 10, Emilia, nine, Gwen, six, and Jeremiah, four, with him, took to social media with a sad post on the annual celebration of paternal figures.She wrote: “Missing you so much and thinking of how magnificent you were in every single way today. And somehow, from the other side? You continue to parent. You’re a marvel.”
James’s wife has marked the first Father’s Day since his passing(Image: @vanderkimberly/Instagram)
The film producer was instantly supported by fans in the comments section of her emotional post, with one writing: “You & your beautiful children, emulate his spirit & huge heart. Blessed be & may He always hold each of you close, until you all meet again.”
Another said: “Thinking of and praying for you often,” whilst a third wrote: “Incredible man that has amazing faith & true love for all his children. Thanks for posting. He will never be forgotten.”
A fourth said: “An absolute TRAGEDY that he passed,” and left behind a string of broken-heart emojis.
Kimberly said that James ‘continues to parent’ even though he is no longer here (Image: @vanderkimberly/Instagram)
James, also known for his roles in Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction, decided to go public with his diagnosis in November 2024. Announcing his death on behalf of the family, Kimberly, said: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.
“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 an additional statement, Kimberly said: “James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026, leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children.
Speaking about his diagnosis when he chose to go public, James explained: “The trickiest thing is there are so many unknowns with cancer. You think, ‘How do I fix this? Is this healing me? Is this hurting me? Is this working? Is it coming back?’ As someone who likes answers, not knowing is one of the hardest things. I have a lot to live for.”
