James Van Der Beek’s Brother Jared Shares Heartbreak After Actor’s Death
James Van Der Beek my brother Jared shared a heartbreaking tribute to his child after his death.
Jared, 47, took to Instagram on Friday, February 13 to open up about his feelings of loss after the incident Dawson’s Creek the death of a star. (James died Wednesday, February 11 following a battle with stage III colorectal cancer. He was 48.)
“There is a special bond that exists between brothers and two days ago, that physical bond was broken. Now I know why people call it heartbreak when you lose someone close to you,” Jared wrote.
He continued, “There is bitterness and pain so deep in the heart, I didn’t know it would hurt so much.
Alongside a carousel of throwback photos of their family over the years, Jared paid tribute to James and shared more details of their close bond.
“He was my person, I went to him for everything. I’ve been looking up to him since I was born. He never failed to help me whenever I needed him,” Jared wrote.
He continued: “It was amazing to read and see how he touched so many lives not because of something he did, but because of who he was. He shared with an open heart and his wise soul. Although this deep heartache is painful, the healing has already begun with the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. I am so grateful to all of you who took the time to reach out, let me know those people who were there in that community involved. His passing was a wonderful thing, thank you to everyone known and unknown who helped his transition to be as positive as possible.
Concluding the project, Jared said he missed James and will always love him.
“James, I already miss your physical presence and your words of wisdom on the phone. However, I also feel your presence very much and know that you will continue to guide me,” she wrote. “Thank you for living your life with me. I love you.”
Fans shared their support for Jared in the comments section, including James’s Dawson’s Creek the costar Kerr Smith.
“Jared…I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m still having trouble processing all of this,” wrote Smith, 53. “I can’t even imagine what you’re going through. Please know you’re in my thoughts. ❤️🙏😢”
A family friend Erin Fetherston he added, “This is beautiful Jared. You were there for him in an unbelievable way. What a gift it was to witness your brotherhood. God bless you and your family ❤️.”
James’ death was announced in a statement on social media on Wednesday.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” the statement read. “There is much we can discuss about his wishes, love for humanity and the sanctity of time. Those days will come. For now we ask that we be alone and in peace as we mourn our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
Following his death, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to raise money for his widow Kimberly Van Der Beek and the couple’s six children.
