James Van Der Beek's Journey Through Cancer with Supportive Wife Kimberly and Six Children

James Van Der Beek, known for his role in Dawson's Creek, is a devoted father and family man, sharing his life with his wife Kimberly and their six children. Following a colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024, he remains optimistic, finding strength in his family's support while navigating this challenging period.

James Van Der Beek’s Family Structure

James and Kimberly Van Der Beek are the proud parents of six children: daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah. The couple embraces the chaos and joy that come with raising a large family, where each child contributes a unique personality. Despite the challenges of busy schedules and limited time as a couple, they cherish their experiences together, describing the journey of parenthood as one of the greatest adventures of their lives.

Olivia: The Trailblazer

Olivia, born on September 25, 2010, is the eldest of the Van Der Beek children. Her name, inspired by an olive tree in Israel, symbolizes cherished memories from where James and Kimberly first met. Olivia made her television debut in early 2024, performing alongside her father on We Are Family. James expresses pride in her courage to sing publicly, reflecting on their memorable father-daughter moments and acknowledging her wisdom as she grows into her teenage years.

Joshua: The Playful Observer

Born on March 13, 2012, Joshua experienced a serene home birth attended by his father. A fan of Spider-Man and the Green Bay Packers, he enjoys special moments with James, including attending a game at Lambeau Field in 2022. As Joshua becomes more aware of his father's fame, James appreciates his thoughtful nature, highlighting his playful spirit and how he enriches their family dynamics with his insights.

Annabel: The Adventurous Spirit

Annabel, born on January 25, 2014, is celebrated for her calm demeanor and adventurous mindset, famously opting for an undercut hairstyle at just five years old. In her tenth birthday message in January 2024, James expressed gratitude for Annabel’s reliability and caring nature, emphasizing how her fun-loving personality adds joy and warmth to their family unit.

Emilia: The Resilient Presence

Emilia, who was born on March 23, 2016, also joined the family through a home birth. Her bright personality shines through James’ social media, where he shares her resilience and determination. In a birthday post from March 2024, he recognized Emilia as an "old soul," noting the wisdom and humor she brings, which he hopes is a reflection of his own influence.

Gwendolyn: The Joyful Addition

Gwendolyn, born on June 15, 2018, has brought much joy to the Van Der Beek household. James often showcases her vibrant spirit on social media, recalling the delightful moments they share, like a memorable pink manicure Gwendolyn gave him. He acknowledges her ability to light up the family with her observations and playfulness, expressing gratitude for her loving nature.

Jeremiah: The Youngest Blessing

Jeremiah, affectionately known as "Remi," was born at the family’s Texas ranch in October 2021. After several pregnancy losses, the arrival of Remi has been described by James and Kimberly as a blessing full of love and healing for their family. In a recent birthday tribute, James thanked Remi for the unique challenges he presents and for being the best snuggler in the family, highlighting the joy his youngest child brings.