Joshua Jackson has finally spoken out following the death of his longtime friend and Dawson’sCreek co-star James Van Der Beek, sharing an emotional tribute while reflecting on the actor’s life and legacy. During a recent appearance on the Today show, Jackson described the grieving process as ongoing, explaining that the loss has been hitting him in different ways. The actor said that now that he is a father himself, the tragedy feels even more profound because he thinks about the impact the loss has had on Van Der Beek’s family. Jackson and Van Der Beek worked together on Dawson’s Creek for six seasons between 1998 and 2003, a time that Jackson described as incredibly formative for both of them.
The two actors rose to fame together during their early twenties, and Jackson said those years remain a meaningful chapter of his life. Reflecting on their shared history, Jackson spoke about the bond they developed during that time and the fond memories he continues to carry from their years working together on the show.
He also made it clear that Van Der Beek’s greatest achievements were not limited to his career. Jackson described him as someone who grew into what he called a “good man,” guided by deep belief and faith, and someone who faced life’s most difficult moments with grace.
According to Jackson, Van Der Beek became an incredible partner and husband and a man who consistently showed up for his family. He emphasized that his former co-star was deeply devoted to the people closest to him, especially his children.
The actor also noted that the qualities that made Van Der Beek such a remarkable person are what make the loss even harder to process. While Jackson believes his friend lived a meaningful life, he acknowledged that the grief for the family left behind is immense.
Van Der Beek passed away on February 11 at the age of 48, more than a year after being diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer. His wife Kimberly Van Der Beek announced the news publicly, sharing that he faced his final days with courage and faith.
Since his passing, friends and supporters of the late actor have rallied around his family. A GoFundMe campaign created to support his wife and their six children has raised more than $2.6 million, with donations from fans and several figures in Hollywood.
Tributes from the entertainment industry have continued to pour in, including messages from former co-stars who worked alongside Van Der Beek during the peak of Dawson’s Creek. Many have reflected on the joy and creativity they shared during those early years of their careers.
For Jackson, remembering Van Der Beek is about more than the television series that made them famous. His tribute focused on the person his co-star became later in life, a dedicated father, loving husband, and someone remembered for his kindness and belief.
Source: LA times
