Inside James Van Der Beek’s Life With His ‘Extraordinary’ Wife and Six Children Before His Death

James Van Der Beek cherished his family before his tragic passing.

As In Touch previously reported, James died on Wednesday, February 11, at 48 years old following a lengthy cancer battle. The Varsity Blues star was first diagnosed with the disease in August 2023 and publicly shared his stage 3 colorectal diagnosis in November 2024.

James tied the knot with wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, in 2010, and the couple share six children: Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, Gwendolyn, 7, and Jeremiah, 4. The family moved from Los Angeles, California, to Texas in 2020.

In December, the Dawson’s Creek alum sat down for an interview from his Texas ranch — which he called his “happy place” — with Today’s Craig Melvin and shared insight into how his wife has supported him following his diagnosis.

“I would not be alive if it weren’t for my wife,” he admitted. “She just has stepped up as a caretaker, as a nurse, as head of the household.”

James also discussed how his children have coped with his illness.

“As much as I want to shield them from seeing me in any kind of pain or just stress, you know, I wanted to be Superman, Super Dad, you realize that resilience is not only something they have and can build, but it’s the best thing for them,” he reflected.

While James could not attend the Dawson’s Creek reunion in September in New York because he had a stomach bug, Kimberly and the kids made the trip in his place.

“They got a standing ovation just for taking their seats. All that love that would have otherwise been directed at me was directed at my family, and that was one of the most beautiful moments I’ve ever gotten to witness,” James shared with Melvin. “I’m just so grateful to the fans for doing that.”

Additionally, Van Der Beek told Today in a separate appearance in July that his and Kimberly’s “approach was just be as honest as possible… to the degree of their understanding,” explaining “they can sense if dad’s having a tough day.”

In August, James and Kimberly celebrated 15 years of marriage. The Don’t Trust the B—- In Apartment 23 alum marked the occasion with a heartfelt Instagram post dedicated to his wife.

“You are the most extraordinary human I’ve ever met. One day I’ll tell the story of what you’ve endured these last two years and how you’ve shown up, time and time and time again,” he penned. “You have not only saved my life… you’ve shown me what it is to live. There are no words for how much I love and appreciate you. I could not do this without you.”

Following James’ passing, a statement was shared on his Instagram, which read: “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,” the statement continued. “For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”

A GoFundMe was started by Kimberly to “cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education,” according to the description.