Former WWE star Stacy Keibler has shared a touching tribute following the death of actor James Van Der Beek after spending final moments with him and his family.
The Dawson’s Creek star’s passing was confirmed by his loved ones on social media on Wednesday following his public two-year battle with colorectal cancer.
According to an emotional statement posted onto her Instagram, Keibler remained by the side of the Dawson’s Creek star during his final battle with cancer.
She wrote: ‘@vanderjames Spending these final days with you has been a true gift from God. I have never been so present in my life. When you know time is sacred, you don’t waste a single breath. You don’t rush. You don’t scroll.
‘You don’t worry about tomorrow. You sit. You listen. You hold hands. You watch the sky change colors and you let it change you too. In these past days, you taught me more about being present than any book ever could. You showed me what it looks like to trust God’s plan, even when it breaks your heart.
‘Especially when it breaks your heart. The other night we watched the sunset together as you shared your wisdom, your hopes, and the promises we made to each other. We talked about how this world can feel upside down…and how maybe heaven needs your spirit now to help steady us down here. And just as the sun slipped away, a shooting star crossed the sky…as if to remind us that none of this is random. You are a gift.
Former WWE star Stacy Keibler has released a touching tribute following the death of actor James Van Der Beek after spending final moments with him and his family
Keibler shared this pictured alongside the touching tribute following the actor’s death
‘An incredible husband. An extraordinary dad. The way you showed up for @vanderkimberly and your children…steady, strong, devoted…was a blessing to witness. It has been an honor to stand beside your family in these sacred moments. It’s pretty incredible how someone can fight so hard for so long, travel the world battling so much, and somehow still look so handsome doing it.
‘That smile never left you. You have given this world so many gifts. Your presence was a bright light in my life, and in so many others. And while your physical body may no longer be here, I know your spirit is doing big things. I feel it already.
‘We may have lost a good one here on earth… but heaven gained something extraordinary. I will think of you every time I watch a sunset. Every time I see a rainbow stretch across the sky. I’ll know you’re there.
‘And maybe the lesson you leave us with is this: The present moment is everything. Love the people in front of you. Say the words. Watch the sunset. Trust God, even when you don’t understand. Thank you for changing me. I will carry you with me. Always.’
Van Der Beek had been battling colorectal cancer, a diagnosis he made public in late 2024. He remained active in his advocacy for cancer awareness until his death.
The actor was best known for his leading role in the television drama Dawson’s Creek, which aired for six seasons and 128 episodes between 1998 and 2003 on The WB.
He also starred in the 1999 film Varsity Blues, where he played quarterback Mox. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $54 million at the box office.
Keibler’s connection to the actor stems from their long-standing friendship within the entertainment industry. She rose to fame in World Championship Wrestling.
Hollywood has led tributes following the heartbreaking news of James Van Der Beek’s death at the age of 48; seen in May 2025 in L.A.
Keibler was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2023 for her career contributions
During her wrestling career, Keibler was a centerpiece of the late 1990s boom. She entered the WWE in 2001 following the acquisition of WCW by Vince McMahon.
Keibler competed in high-profile matches at WrestleMania X8 and WrestleMania XIX. She was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2023 for her career contributions.
Beyond the ring, Keibler placed third in the second season of Dancing with the Stars. She has since focused on wellness and parenting her three young children.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Keibler gained significant mainstream media attention for her high-profile relationship with actor George Clooney.
The pair began dating in July 2011 and remained together for two years. They made several red carpet appearances, including the 84th Academy Awards in 2012.
According to reports from People magazine at the time, the couple ended their relationship in July 2013, with sources citing differing views on future family goals.
