Emily Brown
James Van Der Beek's brother, Jared, has shared a heartfelt tribute to the Dawson's Creek star who died at the age of 48 following a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.
Van Der Beek's family confirmed the news of his death in a post on Instagram on February 11, which said he 'passed peacefully' after meeting his final days with 'courage, faith, and grace'.
The actor, who was also known for his role in Varsity Blues, announced his cancer diagnosis in November 2024, after he'd visited a doctor following changes to his bowel movements which he'd initially put down to his coffee intake.
Speaking to People at the time, Van Der Beek explained: "I felt really good coming out of anesthesia, that I’d finally done it. Then the gastroenterologist said — in his most pleasant bedside manner — that it was cancer. I think I went into shock."
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The actor spent many months following his diagnosis helping to raise awareness for colorectal cancer while also spending time with his family and loved ones, and now his brother, Jared, has admitted he 'didn't know [the loss] would hurt so badly'.
In a post on Instagram, Jared shared a series of photos of himself and his brother, with the first featuring a caption which said: "Love you, Bro."
Alongside the images, Jared wrote: "There’s a special bond that exists between brothers and two days ago, that physical bond was broken.
"I now know why people call it heartbreak when you lose someone close to you. There is a feeling of devastation and pain that runs so deep in the heart, I didn’t know it would hurt so badly. 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 went on to say it has been 'wonderful' seeing how Van Der Beek 'touched so many lives not because of something he did, but because of who he was'.
He continued: "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."
Jared thanked 'everyone known and unknown who helped his transition be as beautiful as possible', before ending his tribute with a line directed straight to his brother.
"James, I already miss your physical being and your words of wisdom over the phone," he wrote. "Yet, I also feel your presence so strongly and I know you will continue to be guiding me. Thank you for living your life with me. I love you."
Following Van Der Beek's death, a GoFundMe page has been set up to help 'cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support [his] children’s education'. The fundraiser has so far raised more than $2.5 million.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.