Hollywood is mourning the loss of James Van Der Beek — and now, the actor’s closest friends are sharing deeply personal glimpses into his final days.
The beloved ’90s heartthrob, best known for his breakout role on Dawson’s Creek, died on February 11 after a years-long battle with colorectal cancer. He was just 48.
In the hours following his passing, members of his inner circle took to Instagram to post intimate photos and heartfelt tributes — offering fans a poignant look at the man behind the fame.
Former WWE star Stacy Keibler revealed she had spent time with Van Der Beek shortly before his death. In one emotional photo, the actor sits in a wheelchair at sunset, appearing frail but peaceful, as Keibler crouches beside him. The golden sky behind them set the scene for what she described as sacred final moments.
“Spending these final days with you has been a true gift from God,” she wrote in a lengthy caption. “When you know time is sacred, you don’t waste a single breath.”
Keibler said their quiet evenings watching the sky change colors left a lasting impact on her, adding that Van Der Beek “showed [her] what it looks like to trust God’s plan.” She also praised him for remaining a devoted husband and father through his health battle, calling him an “incredible husband” and “extraordinary dad.”
Designer Erin Fetherston also shared a carousel of photos, including what appeared to be one taken in his final days. In the image, Van Der Beek lies in bed as Fetherston holds his hand — a quiet, powerful moment that spoke volumes.
“You were loved by the whole world, but to us — you were Uncle James,” she wrote, thanking him for years of loyalty and friendship. She promised to look after his wife and children, calling it an honor to have been part of his life.
Actor Alfonso Ribeiro, who grew close to Van Der Beek in recent years, reflected on what he described as a “roller coaster ride” through the actor’s cancer fight. Ribeiro shared that he had the chance to say goodbye over the weekend — a moment he said he will carry with him forever.
“I’ve learned so much from James,” he wrote, calling himself lucky to have walked alongside him during “this horrible journey to beat cancer.”
Van Der Beek, who also competed on Dancing With the Stars and starred in the cult-favorite film Varsity Blues, leaves behind his wife, Kimberly, and their six children.
Kimberly confirmed his passing in a joint Instagram statement, writing that he met his final days “with courage, faith and grace.” She added that more details about his wishes and reflections on life will be shared in time.
For now, fans are holding onto the sunset snapshots — quiet reminders of a star who, even in his final chapter, chose presence, love, and faith over fear.
And as tributes continue to pour in, one message rings loudest: the present moment is everything.