Katie Holmes is honoring her dear friend and Dawson’s Creek co-star James Van Der Beek.
James sadly lost his battle to cancer on Wednesday morning at age 48, leaving behind his wife Kimberly and their six children. It’s such a heartbreaking passing for so many — from family, to fans, and, of course, his many famous friends.
Katie took to Instagram hours after the news broke to share a handwritten letter to her pal in his remembrance. She captioned the letter:
“I formed some words with a heavy heart. This is a lot to process. 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.”
Related: The Cancer Symptom That Compelled James Van Der Beek To Get A Colonoscopy
In the note, the actress wrote:
“James, thank you. To share 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. These are some of the memories, along with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs — adventures of a unique youth.”
Katie, who played James’ on-screen love interest in the series, reflected on his best qualities:
“Bravery. Compassion. Selflessness. Strength. An appreciation for life and the action taken to live life with the integrity that life is art — creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children — the journey of a hero.”
She concluded:
“I mourn this loss with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it. To Kimberly and the children, we are here for you always. And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion.”
So very moving. See (below):
Our hearts go out to all those mourning James’ death. May he rest in peace.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help his family in this difficult time. If you’re able to donate, and you’d like to, you can click HERE.
[Image via MEGA/WENN & Sony Pictures Television/YouTube]
