Alfonso Ribeiro Mourns Death of Friend James Van Der Beek

Ribeiro reveals he is godfather to Van Der Beek's daughter Gwendolyn

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Actor Alfonso Ribeiro is honoring his late friend James Van Der Beek, revealing that he was the godfather to Van Der Beek's daughter Gwendolyn. Van Der Beek, known for his role on the TV series "Dawson's Creek", passed away at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer.

Why it matters

The close friendship between Ribeiro and Van Der Beek, and Ribeiro's role as godfather to Van Der Beek's daughter, highlights the deep personal bond the two actors shared. Van Der Beek's death at a relatively young age is also a tragic loss for his family and the entertainment community.

The details

Ribeiro took to social media to pay tribute to his friend, saying he is "so broken" over Van Der Beek's passing. Ribeiro revealed he was with Van Der Beek through his cancer battle, experiencing the highs of it looking like he had beaten it and the lows of it returning. Ribeiro said he considers being Gwendolyn's godfather one of the most important roles of his life, and he will always be there for Van Der Beek's children.

  • James Van Der Beek passed away on February 12, 2026 at the age of 48.

The players

Alfonso Ribeiro

An actor known for his role on the TV series "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and as the host of "Dancing with the Stars". He was a close friend of James Van Der Beek and is the godfather to Van Der Beek's daughter Gwendolyn.

James Van Der Beek

An actor best known for his role on the TV series "Dawson's Creek". He passed away at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer.

Kimberly Van Der Beek

The wife of James Van Der Beek, who announced his passing on social media.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so broken right now with the passing of my friend @vanderjames today. He was my true friend brother and life guide.”

— Alfonso Ribeiro (Instagram)

“He will live forever in my heart. I will always be there for their children. I will always hold my role as Gwen's Goddie daddy as one of the most important roles of my life. I love you James and know I have a guardian angel watching over me. Being able to say goodbye this weekend will always live with me. RIP my brother. RIP.”

— Alfonso Ribeiro (Instagram)

The takeaway

The close friendship and bond between Alfonso Ribeiro and James Van Der Beek, and Ribeiro's role as godfather to Van Der Beek's daughter, highlights the profound impact Van Der Beek had on those around him. His passing at a young age is a tragic loss for his family and the entertainment community.