Katie Holmes pays heartfelt tribute to James Van Der Beek after his death

Katie Holmes has paid tribute to her Dawson’s Creek costar James Van Der Beek following his death on Wednesday, February 11, at age 48.

In a heartfelt, handwritten Instagram post, Holmes said the loss of her former co-star was “a lot to process” and shared her words with a “heavy heart.”

“I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’ journey. He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children,” Holmes wrote, addressing Van Der Beek’s wife and six children.

Holmes reflected on her time with Van Der Beek, who played Dawson Leery on the beloved teen series from 1998 to 2003. 

“James, thank you. To share a space with your imagination is sacred — breathing the same air in the land of make-believe and trusting that each other's hearts are safe in their expression,” she added.

The actress continued, recalling memories of laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs, and the adventures of youth. She praised Van Der Beek for his “compassion, bravery, selflessness, and strength” and celebrated his life, family, and artistry.

Holmes concluded her tribute with a message to Van Der Beek’s family: “We are here for you always. And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion.”

Van Der Beek had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023 and shared the news publicly the following year.

Several of Van Der Beek’s former Dawson’s Creek co-stars also paid tribute. Busy Philipps, who joined the series in season five, called him “one in a billion” in an Instagram post, sharing throwback photos and expressing grief for his wife Kimberly and their children.

“James Van Der Beek was one in a billion and he will be forever missed,” Philipps wrote. “I am just so, so sad. He was my friend and I loved him, and I’m so grateful for our friendship all these years.”

Mary-Margaret Humes, who played Dawson’s mom, Mrs. Leery, shared photos on Instagram and praised Van Der Beek’s “quiet strength and dignity” in battling his illness, asking fans to respect the family’s request for privacy.