James Van Der Beek's inner circle is a tight-knit crew built on fond memories, laughter and years of shared experiences. At the core was Van Der Beek, surrounded by close friends who became like family, including Dancing With the Stars cohost Alfonso Ribeiro, Law & Order alum Mehcad Brooks, WWE Hall of Famer Stacy Keibler and designer Erin Fetherston. The four were by the Dawson's Creek actor's side during his final days, cherishing every last moment they could spend together. (Van Der Beek died from colorectal cancer on February 11, 2026, 15 months after announcing his diagnosis.