Elle star recalls working with James Van Der Beek in his final show

• James Van Der Beek died on 11 February 2026 from colorectal cancer complications
• His final role debuts in Prime Video's Elle, premiering on 1 July 2026
• Co-star Lexi Minetree says Van Der Beek brought his daughters to the set

Actress Lexi Minetree has spoken warmly about her experience working alongside the late James Van Der Beek on the upcoming Prime Video series Elle, describing the actor as someone who "brought so much life" to both his role and the set. The Crowdsource Murder actress shared her memories of Van Der Beek on Friday at streamer Prime Video's Obsessed Fest, speaking to Deadline about the show ahead of its 1 July 2026 premiere.

Van Der Beek's final role

Van Der Beek, best known for his role in Dawson's Creek, passed away on 11 February 2026 at the age of 48 following complications from stage 3 colorectal cancer, a disease he had been battling since his diagnosis in 2023. He underwent both surgery and chemotherapy during his treatment. Four months on from his death, his final onscreen performance as Dean Wilson will debut in Elle, a prequel to the Legally Blonde franchise.

'He's so charismatic'

Minetree, 25, plays the titular character Elle Woods — a future Harvard law student — in the Prime Video production. Speaking about her late co-star, she described him as a deeply warm and magnetic presence on set. "He's wonderful. It was incredible working with him. He's so charismatic, and I'm so excited for people to get to see his performance, because he just brought so much life to this character, and to set, honestly," she said.

'We miss him so much'

The actress also recalled the personal moments that made the experience particularly memorable. "I remember meeting him and just feeling so much warmth, and he even brought his daughters to set. It was really incredible. I know this is his last show, and I think fans are gonna be in for a real treat, getting to see him. We miss him so much," Minetree said.

Elle, executive-produced by Reese Witherspoon, is set to premiere on Prime Video on 1 July 2026.