James Van Der Beek's celebrity friends share emotional tributes after his death aged 48

Hollywood has led emotional tributes following the heartbreaking news of James Van Der Beek's death at the age of 48. 

The Dawson's Creek star's passing was confirmed by his loved ones on social media on Wednesday following his public two-year battle with colorectal cancer.

Celebrities such as Chad Michael Murray and Jennifer Garner shared their condolences in the comment section as they responded to the loss. 

Murray penned, 'Sending love and light to your beautiful family. James was a giant. We're so so so sorry for what you're going through. 

'His words, art and humanity inspired all of us- he inspired us to be better in all ways. God bless you guys.'

Garner Garner typed, 'What a heartbreaking loss. So much love to you, Kimberly, and to your kids, as you navigate this tender time. ♥️.' 

Teen Wolf alum Tyler Posey said, 'Love you brother.' 

Jenna Dewan commented, 'I will always and forever remember your sweet gentle soul. My love and prayers with Kim and the entire family.' 

Singer Katharine McPhee and wife of David Foster wrote, 'This is just beyond devastating news. I'm so so sorry for your loss. God bless you all.' 

Riverdale alum Drew Ray Tanner shared, 'Amazing man and father. Rest in peace my friend.'

Tanner had worked alongside Van Der Beek in the 2024 film Sidelined: The QB And Me as well as the 2025 sequel Sidelined 2: Intercepted. 

Hilaria Baldwin added, 'Sending so much love. I'm so sorry.' 

NSYNC singer Lance Bass typed, 'We are sending your beautiful family so much love. Safe travels James. You made this world a better place. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.'

Twilight alum Nikki Reed also shared a lengthy message which read, 'You beautiful soul. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing you is forever changed by you. Your depth, your presence, your unparalleled love for your family.

'The connection you and Kimberly have that transcends lifetimes. You still hold the prize for wisest person I've ever known.'

The actress reflected on his experiences that he shared with fans as well as his 'gift' with words. 

Reed additionally shared, 'Oh James, you are so so so deeply loved. And so so deeply missed. My heart aches and I'm sure the ripples of those aches will be felt forever. And Kimberly, we are all wrapping you and those sweet babies in love. 

'My special sister, you and James are the greatest example of love I've ever known. Here for you in every way, forever. ❤️.'

The Sopranos actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler shared, 'We are the luckiest to have been part of his tribe. Flu high James. You were everything good in this world.' 

Alfonso Ribeiro wrote, 'I am broken. So happy to have him in my life. Lucky I got to be there to say goodbye.' 

Man v. Food star Adam Richman added, 'What?!?! Can't fathom this - met him a few times. each nicer than the last. What a vibrant gentleman. Makes no sense.' 

On Wednesday, Van Der Beek's loved ones confirmed the actor's death on social media. 

The post read: 'Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. 

'There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.' 

He is survived by his wife Kimberly as well as their six children: Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 12, Emilia, nine, Gwendolyn, seven and Jeremiah, four.

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