Joshua Jackson has spoken publicly for the first time about the death of his former Dawson’s Creek co-star, James Van Der Beek. The actor, 47, shared his reflections during an appearance on NBC’s Today reveal on Tuesday, March 10, nearly one month after Van Der Beek’s passing at the age of 48.
Van Der Beek died on February 11 following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, a diagnosis he had kept largely private. Jackson described the loss as hitting him in “a variety of different ways,” particularly as a father himself. “For me as a father now, the enormity of that tragedy hits in a particularly different way than just as a colleague, so I reckon the processing is ongoing,” he explained.
The two actors rose to prominence together in the late 1990s and early 2000s with Dawson’s Creek, a coming-of-age drama that captivated audiences. Jackson acknowledged the formative experience of working alongside Van Der Beek during those years. “It was formative for us,” he said. “And I recognize both of us look back on that time with great fondness.”
Although, Jackson was quick to emphasize that his time with Van Der Beek on the show represented only a portion of his late friend’s life and accomplishments. “But I will also say is [that] I know that I’m just a footnote in what he actually accomplished in his life,” he stated. He went on to describe Van Der Beek as a “quality man” who embodied “the kind of belief, the kind of faith that allowed him to face the impossible with grace.”
Jackson highlighted Van Der Beek’s dedication to his family, describing him as “an unbelievable partner and husband” and a “attractive, kind, interested, dedicated father.” He noted that these qualities made the loss particularly poignant. “On the one hand that’s beautiful,” Jackson continued. “I think he did lead a very good life and he was a good man, the tragedy of that loss for his family is enormous.”
The actor shared that he has been reflecting on Van Der Beek’s life and legacy “quite a bit” in the weeks since his death. He also shares a 5-year-old daughter, Juno, with ex-wife Jodie Turner-Smith, and indicated that becoming a parent has deepened his understanding of the tragedy.
Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, recently marked her first birthday since his death, sharing a poignant post on social media.
As the entertainment industry and fans continue to mourn the loss of James Van Der Beek, Joshua Jackson’s heartfelt tribute offers a glimpse into the lasting impact of a talented actor and a cherished friend. The coming months will likely see further reflections on Van Der Beek’s career and the legacy he leaves behind.
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