James Van Der Beek's Final Act of Love: Bedside Vow Renewal Before Passing
In one of the most poignant and heartbreaking moments of their lives, James Van Der Beek and Kimberly Van Der Beek shared a final testament to their enduring love just days before his tragic passing. The beloved actor, forever remembered as Dawson Leery from the iconic television series 'Dawson's Creek,' participated in a deeply emotional bedside wedding vow renewal ceremony with his devoted wife, creating a beautiful memory amid unimaginable hardship.
A Final Celebration of Love and Commitment
James Van Der Beek had been courageously battling stage 3 colorectal cancer since his initial diagnosis in late 2023. He bravely went public with his health struggle in November 2024, sharing raw and honest updates that inspired countless fans worldwide with his remarkable resilience and unwavering positivity. As his health began to decline significantly in early February 2026, the couple made a conscious decision to focus on what truly mattered most: celebrating their profound love story one final time.
The intimate vow renewal ceremony took place on February 9, 2026, right from the comfort of their own bed. "We made the decision just two days in advance, and our friends provided us with new rings, decorated the bedroom with flowers and candles, and we renewed our vows from the comfort of our bed," Kimberly Van Der Beek revealed in an exclusive interview with People magazine. She described the occasion as "simple and beautiful and moving," a gathering that included their six children, close family members, and dear friends, with some participants connecting virtually via Zoom to witness the magical moment.
Despite his frail condition, James Van Der Beek reportedly lit up with visible joy during the ceremony, exchanging heartfelt vows that echoed the promises they first made to each other over fifteen years earlier. Kimberly shared that their closest friends and family surrounded them, with one instrumentalist playing "the most beautiful music" and closing the ceremony with a touching rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."
A Peaceful Passing and Public Announcement
Just two days after their emotional vow renewal, on February 11, 2026, Kimberly Van Der Beek took to her Instagram account to announce her husband's peaceful passing. "Our beloved James has passed peacefully this morning," she wrote in her heartfelt post. She continued, "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."
The Beautiful Journey of Their Love Story
James Van Der Beek and Kimberly Van Der Beek's remarkable romance began unexpectedly in 2009 during a transformative trip to Israel. What started as a serendipitous meeting quickly blossomed into a deep and spiritual connection, ultimately leading to their beautiful wedding ceremony in Tel Aviv on August 1, 2010. Their family grew steadily and beautifully over the years, welcoming six children:
- Olivia Van Der Beek, born in 2010
- Joshua Van Der Beek, born in 2012
- Annabel Leah Van Der Beek, born in 2014
- Emilia Van Der Beek, born in 2016
- Gwendolyn Van Der Beek, born in 2021
- Jeremiah Van Der Beek, born in 2023
The couple's final act of love—renewing their vows in such intimate and meaningful circumstances—stands as a powerful testament to the strength of their bond and the depth of their commitment to one another, even in the face of life's most challenging moments.
