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Holmes and Van Der Beek famously co-starred together on Dawson\u2019s Creek, the hit WB drama that aired from 1998-2003, as beloved pair Joey and Dawson<\/a>, respectively.<\/p>\n \u201cJames, thank you,\u201d she began in a touching, hand-written note that she shared on Instagram<\/a> on Thursday morning. \u201cTo share a space with your imagination is scared \u2014 breathing the same air in the land of make believe and trusting that each other\u2019s hearts are safe in their expression\u2026 these are some of the memories, along with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs \u2014 adventures of a unique youth.\u201d<\/p>\n Holmes and Van Der Break broke out in Hollywood when starring on Dawson\u2019s. Holmes was 18 when she was cast; Van Der Beek was 20 when cast in the starring role of Dawson Leery.<\/p>\n In her tribute<\/a>, Holmes called out her friend\u2019s bravery, compassion, selflessness and strength. \u201cAn appreciation for life and the action taken to live life with the integrity that life is art \u2014 creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children \u2014 the journey of a hero,\u201d she wrote.<\/p>\n She said she was \u201cholding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it,\u201d while expressing that she will always be there for his family, wife Kimberly and their six children.<\/p>\n Van Der Beek\u2019s inner circle has quickly set up a\u00a0GoFundMe account<\/a>\u00a0for his family, asking for financial aid after medical costs left them \u201cout of funds.\u201d By Thursday morning<\/a>, more than $1.25 million\u00a0has been raised.<\/p>\n Along with her post (below), Holmes wrote, \u201cI formed some words with a heavy heart. This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James\u2019 journey. He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children.\u201d<\/p>\n Best of The Hollywood Reporter<\/p>\n Sign up for THR’s Newsletter<\/a>. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook<\/a>, Twitter<\/a>, and Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/il\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/c743671ca065d84b4ff6ff27cc931b42.jpeg\"\/)
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