Alfonso Ribeiro shares emotional final photo with James Van Der Beek
The television host honored his longtime friend with a heartfelt tribute and a final goodbye that moved fans across the country.
Actor James Van Der Beek has died at age 48 after a years-long battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, leaving behind his wife and six children. Tributes from friends and colleagues continue to pour in, including a deeply personal message from his close friend Alfonso Ribeiro.
The two actors first met in 2019 during Season 28 of Dancing with the Stars. Van Der Beek competed on the show while Ribeiro served as co-host alongside Julianna Hough.
What began as a professional connection quickly grew into a lasting friendship. Over the years, their bond strengthened beyond television appearances. Ribeiro later became godfather to Van Der Beek’s daughter, a role that reflected just how close the families had become.
Van Der Beek had been quietly fighting stage 3 colorectal cancer for three years. His passing was confirmed by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, in a statement shared on his official Instagram account.
She informed fans of his death on February 11, 2026, asking for privacy while expressing gratitude for the support they had received during his illness.
Friends described the journey as filled with both hope and heartbreak — moments when it seemed he was recovering, followed by difficult setbacks.
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Ribeiro’s heartfelt tribute
Shortly after the news became public, Ribeiro shared what he described as his “last goodbye” with his friend.
In one photo posted on February 12, Van Der Beek appears smiling and healthy, captured just months before his passing. Alongside the image, Ribeiro wrote that he felt “broken” by the loss of his “true friend, brother, and life guide.”
He spoke openly about standing by Van Der Beek throughout his health journey, describing the emotional ups and downs the family experienced. Ribeiro credited both James and Kimberly with changing his life, saying he would always feel grateful for their friendship.
He also made a promise that touched many readers: to continue supporting his late friend’s family, especially his six children, calling it “one of the most important roles of my life.”
A day later, Ribeiro shared another deeply personal post — a photo taken just minutes before their final goodbye. In the image, he is seen leaning close to Van Der Beek as they share what appears to be a quiet, emotional embrace.
In his caption, Ribeiro revealed that his last act was trying to make his friend laugh one more time.
“My last moment was making him laugh one last time,” he wrote. “I really miss him already.”
The family has also shared a GoFundMe link for those who wish to offer financial support during this difficult time.
James Van Der Beek built a career that spanned decades in television and film, earning a loyal fan base along the way. But those closest to him say his greatest role was as a husband and father.
As tributes continue to appear from across the entertainment industry, one theme remains constant: he will be remembered not only for his work on screen, but for his kindness, faith, and devotion to family.
For Ribeiro and many others, the loss is deeply personal — a reminder of the power of friendship and the importance of showing up for the people we love.
Our thoughts remain with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
