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Meredith Monroe has broken her silence, sharing a heartfelt Instagram tribute to James Van Der Beek weeks after the actor’s death. Her post mixes grief with gratitude, recalling the friendship they built on and off the set of Dawson’s Creek.
Monroe’s tribute: memories, photos and a message to the family
On Friday, Monroe published a series of images of her and Van Der Beek, accompanied by an earnest caption. She admitted she still feels at a loss for words and said her thoughts have been with his wife, Kimberly, and their children. Monroe described being “flooded with fond memories” and highlighted the warmth he brought into other people’s lives.
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In the post she praised the qualities that defined him:
- His humor and laughter
- Curiosity about people and the world
- The ability to be fully present
- Sincerity, compassion and friendship
She closed with a benediction for his family, writing that the love he nurtured worldwide should be reflected back to Kimberly and their six children. “God gained an angel far too soon,” she wrote, asking him to rest in peace.
Photos and moments she chose to share
Monroe included a mix of personal and professional shots.
- A solo portrait of Van Der Beek
- A behind-the-scenes image from Dawson’s Creek
- A photo with Mary-Margaret Humes, who played his on-screen mother
Those images underline a friendship that extended beyond their roles. Monroe described their years together as full of shared laughter and quiet, human moments.
How Dawson’s Creek tied them together
Monroe and Van Der Beek first met on the WB drama that defined a generation of teen TV. She joined the cast as Andie McPhee in Season 2 and stayed through Season 4. He starred as Dawson Leery across all six seasons.
Their three seasons together built a bond that colleagues and fans still mention today. The show’s legacy amplifies the sense of loss felt across social media and in messages from castmates.
Other cast members pay their respects
Monroe’s words follow several public tributes from former co-stars.
- Katie Holmes posted a handwritten note, calling her time with him a meaningful part of her life and saying she is grateful to have shared part of his journey.
- Sasha Alexander, who played Gretchen Witter, described him as a “deep, thoughtful soul.” She said she is grateful to have stood “in his light” and will remember the kindness he left behind.
Tragic cause and date of death
James Van Der Beek died on Feb. 11, 2026, at age 48. His family disclosed that he had been battling colorectal cancer. The announcement prompted an outpouring of grief and many public tributes from friends and fans.
Support for the family: GoFundMe and donations
In the wake of his passing, friends launched a fundraiser to help his wife and children. The campaign exceeded early expectations.
- Initial goal: $500,000
- Revised goal: $1.5 million
- Amount raised so far: over $1.32 million
- Donors: more than 26,000 people
Notable contributions include actress Zoe Saldaña, who set up a recurring pledge of $2,500 per month. The fundraiser remains a focal point for those who want to support the family during this difficult time.
