February 12, 2026
James Van Der Beek's viral message about faith, cancer battle inspires viewers after actor's death at age 48
A video James Van Der Beek posted last year about finding spiritual meaning during his cancer fight is going viral and providing inspiration after his death at age 48.
TL;DR
- Actor James Van Der Beek passed away at age 48.
- His wife confirmed his death on social media.
- Derek Hough, a judge on "Dancing with the Stars," shared a powerful video message from Van Der Beek.
- The video, originally posted in March 2025, details Van Der Beek's battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
- Van Der Beek spoke about how facing his mortality led him to a revelation about his inherent worthiness of "God's love."
- He emphasized that this worthiness is simply based on existence and extends to self-love.
- Van Der Beek encouraged others to embrace the mantra, "I am worthy of love," even if the word "God" is a trigger.
- The actor described himself as a "wise, thoughtful, loving man" who shared his light during difficult moments.
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