According to Deadline, Joshua Jackson (from Dr. Death and The Affair) has shared his first public comments on the February 11 passing of his Dawson’s Creek co‑star James Van Der Beek. Speaking on the Today show, Jackson said the loss has affected him in several ways. “I think it hits in a variety of different ways,” he explained, adding that becoming a father has changed how he processes the tragedy. “The enormity of that tragedy for his family hits me in a very different way than just as a colleague. So I think the processing is ongoing.”

According to Deadline, Jackson reflected on their years working together on Dawson’s Creek, describing that period as “formational” for both actors. He said he looks back on that time with “great fondness,” but emphasized that Van Der Beek’s life and accomplishments extended far beyond the series. Jackson called him “a good man,” praising his faith, strength, and commitment to his family. He added that Van Der Beek faced his illness “with grace,” describing him as “an unbelievable partner and husband” and “a beautiful, kind, curious, interested, dedicated father.”

According to Deadline, Van Der Beek revealed his colorectal cancer diagnosis in 2024. Jackson, now 47, has since partnered with the NHL and AstraZeneca for the Get Body Checked Against Cancer campaign, which encourages men to get screened. Jackson noted that many men avoid medical care, saying the “stiff upper lip” mentality can be harmful. “Guys don’t like to talk about this,” he said. “We don’t like to go to the doctor, we don’t like to deal with this stuff… but in this it’s not helpful at all.”

Katie Holmes (from Batman Begins and First Daughter), who also starred with Jackson and Van Der Beek on Dawson’s Creek, shared her own tribute last month. According to Deadline, Holmes said she was grateful to have been part of Van Der Beek’s creative journey, recalling their early years filled with imagination, laughter, music, and conversations about life. She described acting with him as “sacred,” remembering the trust they built while creating the world of the show together.