James Van Der Beek’s ex-wife, Heather McComb, has spoken out following the actor’s death at age 48.

“Thank you for everyone who has reached out,” McComb, 48, captioned an Instagram post on Thursday, February 12. “I appreciate and feel all your love. I am heartbroken over the loss of beloved James.”

McComb noted that she was “especially heartbroken” for James’ “incredible wife,” Kimbertly Van Der Beek, and their six “beautiful” children: daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia and Gwendolyn and sons Joshua and Jeremiah.

McComb posted a photo with James that was taken at her 21st birthday, before Dawson’s Creek even premiered.

“This is how I will always see James innocent, kind and pure of heart. What a journey we shared over the years. I sit here in immense gratitude for the special connection, friendship and love that James and I shared that has endured through decades,” she added. “I will treasure the last loving words we exchanged. James was a beautiful soul filled with so much light, love, talent, humor, depth, sensitivity, knowledge and a deep love of God that shined through him.”

McComb added, “He shined so bright yet was so humble and human. Always searching, always growing, always going deeper, always chasing things outside his comfort zone.”

News broke on Wednesday, February 11, that James died following a lengthy cancer battle. He was diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer in August 2023 and went public with the news in November 2024.

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” read an Instagram statement announcing his death. “There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”

Related: James Van Der Beek and Wife Kimberly Van Der Beek‘s Relationship Timeline

James Van Der Beek and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek were each other’s biggest supporters before his death in February 2026. The Dawson’s Creek alum met Kimberly in 2009, less than one year after finalizing his divorce from ex-wife Heather McComb. Us Weekly confirmed in August 2010 that James and Kimberly tied the knot in a “small spiritual […]

James and McComb wed in 2003. They announced their separation in April 2009, and their divorce was finalized the following year. James married Kimberly in 2010.

“I know that James loved being a father so much and oh how he loved Kimberly with his everything. True soulmates. How she showed up for him with such grace is so beautiful and something I will forever admire,” McComb added. “James was a blessing to all that knew him and because of his boldness to share his journey with the world so bravely is now a blessing to all.”

McComb asked God to “hold” James’ family in their time of mourning as her caption concluded. McComb also asked followers to donate to the GoFundMe page set up for James’ family, which has reached more than $1 million in less than 24 hours.

“You are the healer of all healers. Thank you Jesus for bringing this beautiful soul into the world and into all of our lives. I love you James,” she concluded. “I know you had a lot of loved ones up there welcoming you home. God bless you. Till we meet again you sweet soul you. Prayers up.”