Joshua Jackson, 47, was photographed departing a Santa Monica restaurant on Wednesday, February 11, marking his first public appearance since learning of the death of his longtime friend and former television costar James Van Der Beek. The sighting occurred mere hours after Van Der Beek's family announced that the actor had passed away at age 48 following a battle with stage III colorectal cancer.
Photographers captured Jackson leaving Gigi's Baldi restaurant in Santa Monica, California, dressed in casual attire consisting of a cream cardigan, white shirt, black trousers, and white sneakers. The actor appeared somber in demeanor, though a slight smile was visible as he departed the establishment carrying his wallet.
The Travis County Medical Examiner's Office in Texas confirmed that Van Der Beek was pronounced deceased at 6:44 a.m. on Wednesday. His family released a statement via social media expressing their grief and requesting privacy during this difficult period.
"Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace," the family's statement 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."
A Decades-Long Professional Relationship
Jackson and Van Der Beek developed a close friendship during their time portraying best friends Pacey Witter and Dawson Leery, respectively, on the popular coming-of-age television series Dawson's Creek. The program aired on The WB network from 1998 to 2003 and also featured Katie Holmes and Michelle Williams as principal cast members.
Van Der Beek publicly disclosed his cancer diagnosis in November 2024. In March 2025, during an appearance on a podcast, he confirmed that he had reconnected with his former castmates amid his health battle. "I've gotten in touch with them recently and it's just been so nice," Van Der Beek stated. "It's just been so great to talk to them and catch up with, like, who they are now this many years out and to have that shared experience from back in the day."
Jackson provided an update on Van Der Beek's condition during an April 2025 television appearance. "The last I heard — it's not really my story to tell, but — that the latest round of treatment was doing well," Jackson shared. "So he's doing a little bit better, but it is obviously very, very scary." He added thoughts and prayers for Van Der Beek and his large, young family.
Cast Reunion and Support
The Dawson's Creek cast assembled in September 2025 for a special one-night event in New York City, performing a reading of the show's pilot episode to raise funds for the nonprofit organization F Cancer. The event served as both a celebration of the program's legacy and a demonstration of support for Van Der Beek during his illness.
Van Der Beek was unable to attend the reunion due to illness but recorded a message for his castmates and supporters. "I have been looking forward to this night for months and months ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she was putting it together. I can't believe I'm not there," Van Der Beek stated in the recorded message. "I just want to stand on that stage and thank every single person in the theater for being here tonight."
Following Van Der Beek's death, Holmes shared a handwritten tribute via social media. "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," Holmes wrote. She praised Van Der Beek's bravery, compassion, selflessness, and strength, noting his dedication to creating a beautiful marriage and raising six children.
Holmes concluded her tribute by addressing Van Der Beek's widow, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children: "To Kimberly and the children, we are here for you always. And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion."
Jackson has not yet issued a public statement regarding Van Der Beek's passing. Friends of Kimberly Van Der Beek have established a fundraising campaign to support the family, which has received substantial donations from fans and members of the entertainment community.
Van Der Beek is survived by his wife Kimberly and their six children. The family has requested privacy as they navigate this period of mourning.