James Van Der Beek and Joshua Jackson formed an unbreakable bond during their stint in the hit teen drama series Dawson’s Creek. The friendship between these two actors, especially James who portrayed Dawson Leeray, has left a lasting impact on not only their professional collaboration but also on their personal lives.
A few weeks ago, tragedy struck when James passed away following his battle with colorectal cancer. While numerous tributes were paid to the late actor, Jackson remained quiet about the loss. However, nearly a month later, he felt compelled to break his silence and share his thoughts publicly.
“I’ve become a father now, which means the gravity of this tragedy for his family hits in an entirely different way than when I was just a colleague,” Jackson stated on the Today show. “We shared such an incredible time at a very young age. Both of us can look back fondly on that period, but I have to say that I’m really just a footnote in what he accomplished throughout his life.”
Jackson continued by raving about Beek’s character as well as his personal qualities. He reminisced, “Over the years, James became someone we usually call a good man. A man with strong beliefs and faith who could face impossible situations with grace.
“An unbelievable partner and husband. A real father who was always there for his family.”
This revelation only added to Jackson’s emotional response when discussing Beek’s death. “It’s even harder now, but in some ways, it makes the loss more beautiful,” he explained. “He led a very good life. He was indeed a good man; what he had to go through with losing him is enormous for his family.”
At 48 years old when he passed away, James Van Der Beek left behind memories that resonate beyond their acting career, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew him.