The death of James Van Der Beek crushed the souls of millions. We grew up with the Dawson’s Creek star, and seeing him suffer from cancer felt so unfair. James took his career seriously, but his life became much more fulfilled as a husband and father of six. In the wake of his death, Derek Hough posted a 2025 video of James discussing his mortality. He shared the heartache of being a father and husband who could no longer do the things he loved because of a wretched disease. But in his heartache, James Van Der Beek had a profound awakening, “I am worthy of God’s love, simply because I exist,” he said. “And if I’m worthy of God’s love, shouldn’t I be worthy of my own?”
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James Van Der Beek’s Message Touched the Hearts and Souls of Many After His Death
James Van Der Beek let his followers, friends, and loved ones know that if he’s worthy of God’s love, so are we. It’s a message that felt even more beautiful after his death.
“My heart is heavy hearing about James’ passing. I immediately thought of this video he shared. It moved me to tears the first time I saw it, and it moves me even more now.
I wanted to honor his memory by sharing. What a wise, thoughtful, loving man. Thank you, James, for your courage, your strength, and for sharing your light even in your darkest moments,” Derek Hough wrote.
“Praying for his wife, his beautiful children, and his family. Thank you James,” he added.
“I just watched this on his page, too. And I just donated to his family’s fund and I saw your name on there, too,” The Wonder Years star Danica McKellar wrote. “Thank you for sharing this incredible video on your platform!”
“What an incredibly beautiful human and such a horrifically sad loss,” LeAnn Rimes agreed.
Hours after James Van Der Beek’s death, loved ones launched a GoFundMe for his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. It’s raised more than $800,000 thus far.
This story’s featured image is by Michael Buckner/Deadline/Penske Media via Getty Images.
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