James Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, honored her late husband by reposting a heartfelt cover of Dawson’s Creek’s iconic theme song, “I Don’t Want to Wait.” The tribute came just one day after the actor’s death at age 48 from colorectal cancer.
Alana Springsteen’s Tribute
Country singer Alana Springsteen, 25, shared an acoustic rendition of Paula Cole’s song on Instagram, joined by Sara Bares and Lauren LaRue. In her caption, Springsteen expressed grief over Van Der Beek’s passing and directed fans to a GoFundMe set up to support the family.
“RIP James Van Der Beek this loss hit me hard today,” she wrote. “So much girlhood was lived to the backdrop of his work. Praying for his beautiful family.”
Paula Cole, the original singer of the theme, responded emotionally: “So beautiful. Tears and more tears. Thank you for honoring James and his family.”
Kimberly’s Response
Kimberly Van Der Beek, 44, reposted the cover to her Instagram Stories, amplifying the tribute and highlighting the fundraiser created by friends to help her family. The GoFundMe page revealed that medical expenses and the long battle against cancer left the family financially strained. It emphasized the need for support to cover living costs, bills, and the children’s education.
Community Support
The fundraiser has already raised over $2 million, including a $25,000 donation from director Steven Spielberg, who was a favorite of Van Der Beek’s Dawson’s Creek character. James and Kimberly share six children: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9½; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 4.
Remembering James Van Der Beek
Van Der Beek, best known for his role as Dawson Leery, was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August 2023. He publicly revealed his diagnosis in November 2024, sharing his journey with courage and faith.
Kimberly announced his passing on Instagram: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.” The actor’s legacy continues through his work, his family, and the outpouring of love from fans and colleagues.
