Emilia Van Der Beek Remembers Her Father
“If you miss them, you can cry. You can talk to them. I talk to my dad every day,” shared Emilia Van Der Beek in a heartfelt video tribute on March 8, 2026, honoring her father, James Van Der Beek, on what would have been his 49th birthday.
James Van Der Beek, known for his roles in ‘Dawson’s Creek’ and ‘Varsity Blues’, passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48 after a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He was diagnosed with the disease in August 2023, and his journey was made public in November 2024.
Emilia, who was born in 2016, expressed her deep connection to her father, stating, “You have to feel them in your heart, because they’re in your heart. They’re watching over you.” Her touching words reflect the profound impact James had on his family and the love they continue to share.
In her tribute, Emilia also mentioned, “I know that he was a good man. A lot of people loved him, and people prayed for him, and he was loved by … many, many people.” This sentiment resonates with the outpouring of support the Van Der Beek family has received since James’s passing.
James was married to Kimberly Brook in 2010, and together they had six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah. Kimberly also honored James on his birthday by sharing previously unseen photos and videos on social media, celebrating his life and legacy.
The Van Der Beek family has received significant support from fans and friends, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over $2.7 million to assist them during this difficult time.
Emilia concluded her tribute with a poignant reminder, saying, “Everything is meant to happen for a reason.” Her words encapsulate the family’s resilience and the love that will continue to bind them together, despite their loss.
As the family navigates this challenging period, they remain grateful for the love and support from the community, which has been instrumental in helping them cope with their grief.
