Meredith Monroe shared an emotional Instagram tribute to her Dawson's Creek costar James Van Der Beek on Thursday, Feb. 26
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Van Der Beek, who starred as Dawson Leery in the series, died at age 48 on Feb. 11
"I've been flooded with fond memories of our friendship that we shared over the years & this is what's come from them - Your legacy is your light," Monroe, who played Andie McPhee wrote
Meredith Monroe is paying tribute to her close friend andDawson's Creekcostar,James Van Der Beek,two weeks afterhis death at the age of 48.
On Thursday, Feb. 26, Monroe, 56 — who played Andie McPhee on the beloved teen series from 1998 to 2003 alongside Van Der Beek's Dawson Leery — posted an emotional message onInstagramalongside several photos of the two of them taken through the years.
The actress wrote, "It's been 2 weeks & I still don't know what to say?? Nothing seems right?? James, you, Kimberly, your children & families have been constantly in my thoughts, my prayers & on my heart," referencing Van Der Beek's wife,Kimberly Van Der Beek, whom he married in 2010, andtheir six kids.
Monroe continued, "I've been flooded with fond memories of our friendship that we shared over the years & this is what's come from them - Your legacy is your light."
"Whether 1 on 1, at a party, an event, or in your art you've always shared your light through: your humor & laughter your curiosity, time & energy both in others & the world around you your ability to be completely present & make others feel welcome & comfortable your sincerity, friendship, compassion & love," she shared.
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Monroe went on, "James may the love & community that your light has built worldwide be reflected back infinitely upon your beautiful wife Kimberly, your amazing children & your family," concluding, "God gained an angel far too soon. Rest in peace," and adding a white love heart emoji.
Van Der Beek diedon Feb. 11 after beingdiagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancerin 2023.
The late actor'sDawson's CreekcostarKatie Holmeswas alsoamong the many stars from the show paying tributefollowing his tragic death.
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In a moving, hand-written note posted toInstagram, Holmes said that losing Van Der Beek had been "a lot to process."
"I 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' journey. He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children. ❤️,"the mom of one, 47, wrote in a caption.
InDawson's Creek, Van Der Beek's Dawson was an aspiring filmmaker with his heart set on his own happily ever after with Joey Potter (Holmes).
"James, thank you. To share a space with your imagination is sacred — breathing the same air in the land of make believe and trusting that each other's hearts are safe in their expression," Holmes began the letter.
She continued, "These are some of the memories, along with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs — adventures of a unique youth."
Holmes then listed some of Van Der Beek's best qualities, including "bravery, compassion, selflessness and strength."
"An appreciation for life and the action taken to live life with the integrity that life is art — creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children — the journey of a hero," she added.
Holmes then went on to write that she mourned the loss of Van Der Beek "with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it."
The actress concluded her message by addressing her late costar's wife, Kimberly, and their children. "We are here for you always," she wrote. "And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion."
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