Alfonso Ribeiro Shares Heartbreaking 'Last Goodbye' Photo With James Van Der Beek After Actor's Death

Alfonso Ribeiro posted an emotional photo on Instagram capturing his final moments with close friend James Van Der Beek, who died at age 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer.

The image, taken by Van Der Beek's wife Kimberly, shows Ribeiro cradling the actor's head at his bedside. Ribeiro shared the tribute one day after Van Der Beek's passing on February 11, 2026, in Texas.

The "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" star described the moment as his "last goodbye," noting that he made Van Der Beek laugh one last time. Van Der Beek had been privately fighting stage 3 colorectal cancer since 2023, revealing it publicly in November 2024. The post highlights their deep friendship and has drawn widespread attention from fans and celebrities.

This event underscores the impact of colorectal cancer, a disease affecting thousands annually, and the value of close relationships in Hollywood. Tributes continue to pour in, with a GoFundMe for Van Der Beek's family raising over $1 million.

James Van Der Beek's Battle With Colorectal Cancer

James Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023 after noticing changes in bowel movements, prompting a colonoscopy. He kept the diagnosis private initially but shared it in a November 2024 interview, expressing optimism and stating, "There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good."

The actor viewed the illness as a "life redirect," emphasizing presence and gratitude. In a December 2025 appearance on "Today," he reflected on gaining strength and patience from the experience. Van Der Beek passed away peacefully at his Texas home on February 11, 2026.

His family announced the death via Instagram, requesting privacy during their grief. Van Der Beek leaves behind wife Kimberly and six children: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9½; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 4.

The Friendship Between Alfonso Ribeiro and James Van Der Beek

Alfonso Ribeiro and James Van Der Beek shared a profound bond, with Ribeiro calling him a "true friend brother and life guide." Their connection deepened over years, with Ribeiro supporting Van Der Beek through his cancer journey.

Ribeiro is godfather to Van Der Beek's daughter Gwendolyn, born in 2018. He vowed to remain involved in the children's lives, stating, "I will always be there for their children." The pair connected through Hollywood, including Van Der Beek's participation in "Dancing with the Stars" season 28 in 2019, where he placed fifth.

Ribeiro, who won season 19 of the show in 2014 and later became co-host, noted that Van Der Beek and Kimberly "changed my life." Their friendship exemplified rare Hollywood camaraderie.

The Emotional Tribute and Final Photo

On February 12, 2026, Ribeiro posted the bedside photo on Instagram, captured moments before their goodbye. In the image, Van Der Beek wears a knit hat, appearing frail, as Ribeiro holds him close.

The caption read: "This was taken by @vanderkimberly just a few minutes before I said my last goodbye. My last moment was making him laugh one last time. I really miss him already." Ribeiro also shared a happier photo on Stories, captioning it "So much love lived in this friendship."

In a separate post, he detailed the cancer rollercoaster and his commitment to the family. The tributes have sparked discussions on grief and privacy, with some defending the share as a personal homage.

Celebrity Reactions and Tributes

Celebrities have flooded social media with condolences. "Dawson's Creek" co-star Katie Holmes shared a handwritten note praising Van Der Beek's "bravery, compassion, selflessness and strength."

Busy Philipps remembered him as a "deep, thoughtful soul" who cared deeply about his work. Sarah Michelle Gellar commented on the family's post, calling him "one of the good guys." Other tributes came from Krysten Ritter, Noah Beck, and Reese Witherspoon.

Stacy Keibler posted a sunset photo with Van Der Beek, noting their final days as a "true gift." "The Masked Singer," where Van Der Beek competed, dedicated an episode to him.

Why It Matters: Raising Awareness for Colorectal Cancer

Van Der Beek's death highlights the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in younger adults. Once considered an older person's disease, cases under 50 have increased, prompting calls for earlier screenings.

His openness about symptoms like bowel changes may encourage others to seek medical advice. The story also emphasizes the role of support networks in facing terminal illness.

Van Der Beek's Legacy in Entertainment

James Van Der Beek rose to fame as the lead in "Dawson's Creek" from 1998 to 2003.

He later appeared in films like "Varsity Blues" and TV shows including "Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23."

In recent years, he embraced self-parody and family life, moving to Texas for a quieter existence. His legacy includes advocating for work-life balance and cancer awareness.

What Happens Next: Family Support and Privacy

The Van Der Beek family has requested privacy as they grieve. A GoFundMe, initiated by friends, addresses medical bills and future needs, surpassing $1 million with donations from Zoe Saldana and Derek Hough.

Funeral details remain undisclosed. Ongoing tributes may include memorials or cancer research initiatives in his honor. Fans can contribute to the fundraiser or colorectal cancer organizations.