The entertainment world is mourning the loss of James Van Der Beek, who passed away on February 11, 2026, at age 48 after a three-year battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. Tributes have poured in from friends and fans worldwide.

Among the most emotional messages came from his close friend Alfonso Ribeiro, who shared intimate memories and photos from their final moments together. For many, Van Der Beek’s passing marks the loss of a beloved actor, devoted husband, and father.

Van Der Beek rose to international fame through film and television. He is survived by his wife Kimberly and their six children. Throughout his illness, he remained open about his health journey, sharing messages of gratitude and resilience.

Ribeiro and Van Der Beek met in 2019 on Dancing with the Stars, where their professional connection quickly turned into close friendship. Ribeiro later became godfather to Van Der Beek’s daughter Gwendolyn.

On February 12, Ribeiro shared a powerful tribute on social media, describing himself as “broken” by the loss. He reflected on standing beside James throughout his cancer journey through moments of hope and setbacks.

A day later, Ribeiro shared another moving post featuring a photo taken shortly before James’ passing. In the image, James lies in bed while Alfonso gently holds his head in their final embrace. Ribeiro wrote that his last act was making James laugh one more time.

James Van Der Beek is remembered as a talented actor, devoted father, and faithful husband who faced hardship with grace. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the compassion he showed until the very end.