Alfonso Ribeiro, best known for The Fresh Prince of Bel‑Air and Dancing with the Stars, has shared an emotional tribute to his close friend James Van Der Beek, revealing he is the godfather to the late Dawson’s Creek star’s daughter Gwendolyn, 7, as he mourns Van Der Beek’s sudden passing at age 48.

A Deep and Lasting Bond: Ribeiro’s Tribute

Ribeiro, 54, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram on February 11, 2026, following the announcement of Van Der Beek’s death after a long battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. In his tribute, Ribeiro described the actor as his “true friend, brother and life guide,” and spoke openly about the pain of losing someone so dear.

He acknowledged the shared journey through Van Der Beek’s illness, noting how “family and friends went on this roller coaster ride” as they supported the actor through both hopeful and difficult moments.

Godfather to Gwendolyn: A Promise of Lifelong Support

In a moving declaration, Ribeiro confirmed that Van Der Beek’s 7‑year‑old daughter Gwendolyn is his godchild — and that he intends to honor that role for life. He called being “Gwen’s Goddie daddy” one of the “most important roles” of his life and vowed to always be there for Van Der Beek’s children.

“I will always be there for their children,” he wrote, promising unwavering support for the family in the wake of their loss. 

James Van Der Beek’s Final Days and Passing

James Van Der Beek — famed for his breakout role as Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek — died peacefully on February 11, 2026, at age 48. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared the news on social media, saying he faced his last days with “courage, faith and grace.”

Van Der Beek had publicly announced his colorectal cancer diagnosis in late 2024, though he had been battling the disease since 2023. Tributes have poured in from friends, co‑stars, and fans worldwide.

Survived by Family and Legacy of Love

Van Der Beek leaves behind his wife Kimberly and their six children:

• Olivia (15)
  
• Joshua (13)
  
• Annabel (12)
  
• Emilia (9½)
  
• Gwendolyn (7)
  
• Jeremiah (4)
  

Ribeiro’s promise to stand by the children reflects the deep bond he had with the actor and his family, cementing his role not just as a friend but as a lasting pillar of support.

Community Support and GoFundMe Initiative

In response to the emotional and financial challenges facing the Van Der Beek family after his death, friends and supporters quickly organized a GoFundMe campaign to assist with mounting medical bills and daily living expenses. The campaign has raised significant funds in a short time, illustrating the widespread admiration and love for the actor’s legacy.

Ribeiro’s Emotional Farewell

Ribeiro also reflected on his own personal transformation through his friendship with Van Der Beek, saying that James and his wife Kimberly “changed my life” and that he will forever carry the lessons and love he received from them. He described the actor not only as family but as someone whose influence will remain with him forever.

Conclusion: A Tribute to Friendship and Fatherhood

Alfonso Ribeiro’s public tribute highlights not just the grief of losing a cherished friend, but also his commitment to honor Van Der Beek’s memory through continued love and presence in the lives of his children — especially as the godfather to young Gwendolyn. His message resonates with fans and family alike, underscoring the profound impact Van Der Beek had on those around him