Alfonso Ribeiro revealed he is the godfather of one of James Van Der Beek’s surviving children as he paid tribute to the late Dawson’s Creek star.
“I’m so broken right now with the passing of my friend @vanderjames today. He was my true friend, brother and life guide,” Ribiero, 54, wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, February 11, after news broke of Van Der Beek’s death following a cancer battle. The late actor was 48.
“I was with him through this horrible journey to beat cancer. His family and friends went on this roller coaster ride,” he continued. “The highs when it looked like he had it beat to the breaking lows of it coming back. I’ve learned so much from James. He and @vanderkimberly changed my life. I will forever be in debt for all they’ve given me and my family. He will live forever in my heart.”
Ribeiro vowed to be there for the Varsity Blues star’s six kids, including Gwendolyn, 7, who is his goddaughter. James and his wife of 16 years, Kimberly Van Der Beek, also shared Olivia (born in 2010) Joshua (born in 2012), Annabel (born in 2014), Emilia (born in 2016), and Jeremiah (born in 2021).
“I will always be there for their children,” Ribeiro continued. “I will always hold my role as Gwen’s Goddie Daddy as one of the most important roles of my life. I love you James and know I have a guardian angel watching over me. Being able to say goodbye this weekend will always live with me. RIP my brother. RIP.”
The actor’s death was announced via his Instagram account on Wednesday.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” a statement shared via his Instagram read. “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 Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed James was pronounced dead at 6:44 a.m. on Wednesday. A medical professional made the call to their office.
James announced his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024.
“I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he told People at the time. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”
Following James’ death, his widow Kimberly set up a GoFundMe to help address the financial issues their family is grappling with after the actor’s cancer battle
“James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,” the GoFundMe page read. “After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026 leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children. Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care.”
