Michelle Williams paid tribute to her late co-star James Van Der Beek during the 2026 Actor Awards held in Los Angeles on March 1. The ceremony provided a poignant backdrop for Williams to reflect on their shared history and the profound impact of Van Der Beek’s recent death on his family and friends.
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James Van Der Beek, known for his role as Dawson Leery on the iconic television series *Dawson’s Creek*, passed away on February 11 at the age of 48 after a courageous battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, announced his passing through an emotional Instagram post, prompting a wave of condolences from both fans and colleagues.
At the awards night, Williams, who has remained a close friend of Van Der Beek and his family, expressed her ongoing thoughts for them. While accepting the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for her role in *Dying for Sex*, Williams noted that Van Der Beek and his loved ones were “constantly” in her thoughts.
“Today is a day to celebrate,” Williams said, “but it is also a day filled with reflection on James and all that he meant to us.” She added that the outpouring of support from the public in the wake of his passing has been heartwarming, stating, “It’s incredible to see the response and love surrounding his family during this difficult time.”
In light of Van Der Beek’s death, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated to assist his family with medical expenses and provide support for his six children — Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, Gwendolyn, 7, Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, 4. The fundraiser saw remarkable success, gathering over £1 million within 24 hours and reaching a total of approximately £2 million by March 2.
“This initiative shows how much he was cherished and the profound impact he had on people’s lives,” Williams remarked. “I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to sustaining their lives and supporting their futures.”
Williams, who had a lasting connection with Van Der Beek from their youth, was only 16 when she joined the cast of *Dawson’s Creek*, while he was 20. Their working relationship evolved into a friendship that remained strong through the years, underscoring the tight-knit bonds forged in the often tumultuous world of Hollywood.
The actress attended the awards ceremony with her husband, Thomas Kail, as they celebrated her recent achievements. She is a mother of three and also has a daughter from a previous relationship with the late Heath Ledger, which adds layers to her poignant reflections on family and support during times of loss.
Van Der Beek had made known his health struggles in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE in 2024. He prioritised his wellbeing and family during his battle with cancer, sharing the challenges faced during treatment while fostering hope for recovery.
Following his death, Kimberly shared a heartfelt message on social media, detailing the grace with which her husband faced his final days. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” she wrote, highlighting his courage and love for humanity. “For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
As the entertainment community mourns the loss of Van Der Beek, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who worked with him and loved him. Williams’ tribute at the Actor Awards serves as a reminder of the enduring connections formed in the world of entertainment, and the importance of community in times of grief.
As friends, family, and fans reflect on his life, the support for Van Der Beek’s family continues to serve as a testament to the love he cultivated throughout his journey.