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James Van Der Beek celebrates father and daughter joint birthday!
On Sunday, January 25, the former Dawson’s Creek star shared a tribute to his 12-year-old daughter Annabelle and her father, also known as James, on Instagram.
“Father and daughter share the same birthday today. At first I thought that was the only thing they had in common. They seemed so different to me,” he began, alongside a photo of himself hugging Annabelle and a photo of Annabelle hugging her grandfather.
“But as you both evolve and become more of yourself, I can recognize the same open, warm, loving and kind hearts. I see the care and dedication you put into those you love most,” he continued.
James Van Der Beek/Instagram
He went on to describe the creativity, originality, and great sense of humor they all have in common.
“It’s a wonder to me that you’ve been able to remain so open and so kind and truly good in this crazy world,” he continued, “You’re a wonder…and I’m so grateful to have you in my life.”
The 48-year-old’s sweet post ended with, “The world is a better place because of you both. Happy Birthday, everyone. I love you with all my heart ❤️.”
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Kimberly Van Der Beek/Instagram
Van Der Beek and his wife Kimberly are the proud parents of six children: daughters Olivia, Annabelle, Emilia, and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah.
“I think becoming a father changes you from the inside out,” the Varsity Blues star told PEOPLE in 2013, adding that while he has less time for himself, it’s a tradeoff he’s willing to make for his family.
Similarly, Kimberly, who met Van Der Beek in July 2009 and married him in August 2010, said that having a large family meant spending less time together as a couple. “Date nights now consist of ordering and cuddling on the couch,” she told PEOPLE in 2019.
“We’ve seen lives change for each child,” James said in the same interview. “We’ve seen the opportunities grow and we’ve seen it have a positive impact on other kids. And the extra love that’s brought into the home brightens everyone up in an undeniable way.”
And when he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in November 2024, it was his family that the father of six turned to. “I have personally dealt with this diagnosis and, with the support of my amazing family, have taken steps toward resolution,” James tells PEOPLE. “There is reason for optimism and I feel good,” he added of his health efforts.
