James Van Der Beek’s brother, Jared Van Der Beek, spoke out on the “Dawson’s Creek” actor’s death with a touching tribute.
In his Friday Instagram post, Jared shared a collection of memories featuring his big brother.
He opened the carousel with a sweet snap of James supporting him at what appears to be his college graduation. Over the picture, Jared wrote the words, “Love you, Bro.”
“There’s a special bond that exists between brothers and two days ago, that physical bond was broken,” Jared said.
“I now know why people call it heartbreak when you lose someone close to you. There is a feeling of devastation and pain that runs so deep in the heart, I didn’t know it would hurt so badly. He was my person, the one I went to for any and all things. I’ve looked up to him since I was born. He has never failed to be there for me whenever I needed him.”
In light of his brother’s death, Jared noted that he’s found solace in “reading and seeing 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 with his wise soul. As painful as this pain deep in the heart is, the healing has already begun with all the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. I truly thank all of you have taken the time to reach out, letting me know that you’re there,” Jared wrote.
“The community of people who were intimately involved in his passing were nothing short of amazing. Thank you to everyone known and unknown who helped his transition be as beautiful as possible.”
He closed by pointing his final words to his late brother and telling him one final “I love you.”
“James, I already miss your physical being and your words of wisdom over the phone. Yet, I also feel your presence so strongly and I know you will continue to be guiding me. Thank you for living your life with me. I love you.”
James died Feb. 11 at age 48 following a nearly three-year battle with colorectal cancer.
His family announced his death in an Instagram statement.
“He met his final days with courage, faith and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come,” James’ wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, wrote.
After his passing, many celebrities including some of his former “Dawson’s Creek” co-stars remembered the actor with posts honoring his life and career.
“I’m so sad for your beautiful family,” Sarah Michelle Gellar wrote. “While James’ legacy will always live on, this is a huge loss to not just your family but the world. F–k Cancer.”
“Sending love and light to your beautiful family,” Chad Michael Murray stated. “James was a giant. We’re so so so sorry for what you’re going through. His words, art and humanity inspired all of us – he inspired us to be better in all ways. God bless you guys.”
Katie Holmes, who starred alongside the actor as Joey Potter on the ’90s WB series, posted a poignant handwritten letter to James via Instagram on Wednesday, writing, “I mourn this loss with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it.”
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