James Van Der Beek Remembered As ‘Kind And Pure’ By Ex-Wife In Touching Tribute

James Van Der Beek's legacy continues to live on, as his ex-wife, Heather McComb, reflects on his kindness and enduring spirit.

McComb and the “Pose” actor married in 2003 before parting ways amicably in 2009. He later found love again with Kimberly, with whom he tied the knot in 2010.

The beloved star passed away on February 11 following a battle with colorectal cancer, a fight that reportedly left his family facing significant financial strain.

Hours after Van Der Beek’s death, McComb took a trip down memory lane, remembering their time together and his nature. She posted on Instagram an old photo of them smiling in each other's arms. 

In her caption, McComb admitted she was heartbroken, adding that her prayers were especially with his wife and children before recalling the bond she maintained with him long after their marriage ended.

“This is how I will always see James, innocent, kind, and pure of heart,” McComb wrote. “What a journey we shared over the years. I sit here in immense gratitude for the special connection, friendship, and love that James and I shared that has endured through decades.”

McComb went on to note that she would hold his parting words close to her heart before sharing insights into his personality. She called him a “beautiful soul filled with so much light, love, talent, humor, depth, sensitivity, knowledge, and a deep love of God.”

She added that she would treasure his final words and described him as a "beautiful soul" radiating light, humor, talent, depth, and a deep love of God.

McComb also praised his courage in publicly sharing his health battle, noting that it inspired many, before offering continued prayers for the family he left behind.

McComb was far from alone in mourning the actor's loss as tributes quickly poured in from across Hollywood.

The Blast reported that actress and singer Jamie-Lynn Sigler honored him with a heartfelt message noting his impact in the world.

"We are the luckiest to have been part of his tribe. Fly high, James,” Sigler shared. “ You were everything good in this world." 

Canadian actress Kathleen Robertson extended her condolences to Kimberly and the Van Der Beek family, while stop-motion animator Kevin Parry lamented that the “world has lost a great man.”

Some of Van Der Beek's closest friends also opened up about their last memories with him.

According to The Blast, WWE Hall of Famer Stacy Keibler revealed they spent their final time together watching sunsets and reminiscing about shared dreams and aspirations. 

She said those quiet moments are now etched in her heart, adding that every sunset and rainbow will remind her of him. Keibler described the late actor as a radiant light in her life and in the lives of countless others.

Mechad Brooks also shared that their final days included prayer, laughter, and meaningful conversations.

He said Van Der Beek faced his fate with remarkable strength, a reminder to embrace life fully and joyfully.

In the wake of Van Der Beek’s passing, a fundraiser was launched to support his wife and children after mounting medical bills reportedly created financial hardship.

The campaign indicated the family was struggling to maintain their home while covering education expenses for their children.

The deceased actor had previously been candid about the toll of his illness, revealing in November that he sold personal keepsakes from “Dawson's Creek” to help offset costs.

However, as The Blast reported, after the fundraiser went public, some critics directed their frustration at Sony Pictures, questioning why the studio had not stepped in to assist the actor, given the franchise's long-term success. 

One angry critic wrote, "F-ck @Sony for not even offering to help James Van Der Beek during his time of need.”

The GoFundMe has since gained momentum, surpassing 20,000 donations, per The Blast. Several celebrities, including Zoë Saldaña and Derek Hough, contributed in support.

Amid the tragedy that has hit Hollywood, researchers have weighed in on dietary patterns that are said to trigger colon cancers. 

As The Blast reported, a recent study suggests that consuming at least one sugary soda or candy daily may be associated with an increased risk of late-stage colon cancer.

Colorectal cancer is currently the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States and the second-deadliest form of the disease.

According to projections from the American Cancer Society, about 154,270 Americans are expected to receive a diagnosis this year, with an estimated 52,900 deaths.