A deeply personal tribute is shedding new light on James Van Der Beek’s final years—and the quiet sacrifices he made behind the scenes.
Following the actor’s death on February 11, longtime stylist and close friend Ilaria Urbinati shared an emotional message revealing just how devoted he remained to his family until the very end.
Urbinati, who worked with Van Der Beek for 15 years, described a friendship that went far beyond red carpets and fittings. She recalled everything from baby music classes to parenting advice, birthday flowers, and countless milestones shared together.
But what stood out most, she wrote, was his unwavering focus on his wife Kimberly and their six children—even as he battled colon cancer.
According to Urbinati, Van Der Beek carried himself with remarkable calm and optimism despite his health struggles. She said he maintained a sense of peace and joy that was almost impossible to comprehend given the adversity he was facing.
She described him as warm, generous, and deeply spiritual, adding that his love for his family was unlike anything she had ever witnessed. Even during difficult periods, he continued showing up for the people around him, offering encouragement, humor, and unexpected messages of affection.
Van Der Beek publicly revealed in November 2024 that he had been privately fighting Stage 3 colorectal cancer since August 2023. In the months that followed, he continued working when he could and made efforts to financially support his family, including auctioning memorabilia from his career.
Urbinati’s tribute paints a portrait of a man determined to protect and provide for his loved ones until his final days.
Van Der Beek is survived by his wife and their six children. His passing at 48 has prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends, colleagues, and fans who grew up watching him on screen.
