Months after the passing of actor James Van Der Beek, Landman star Ali Larter says she is still struggling with the loss of her longtime friend and former co-star. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Larter reflected on Van Der Beek’s life, career, and the deeply personal choices he made during his final years, revealing that while his death remains heartbreaking, she finds comfort in knowing he ultimately discovered the happiness he had been searching for.

Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, 2026, following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. His death shocked fans and colleagues alike, including Larter, who worked alongside him in both Dawson’s Creek and the beloved sports drama Varsity Blues. Looking back on their years together, she said what impressed her most wasn’t his Hollywood success but the life he chose away from the spotlight.

According to Larter, one of the most inspiring chapters of Van Der Beek’s life began when he relocated to Austin, Texas, leaving behind the constant demands of the entertainment industry. The move allowed him to focus on what mattered most—his wife, Kimberly, and their six children.

“He made a huge shift in his life by stepping away from the industry,” Larter shared. “He built this beautiful family, had a wonderful marriage, and found happiness outside of Hollywood. I’m heartbroken by his loss, but I’m also grateful because I truly believe he found peace and joy.”

Although the two actors were no longer frequent collaborators in recent years, they remained connected through an unexpected coincidence. Larter famously portrayed Brooke Taylor Windham in the 2001 hit Legally Blonde, while Van Der Beek’s final acting role was as mayoral candidate Dean Wilson in Elle, the 2026 prequel series inspired by the iconic film. Though their characters never crossed paths, Larter described the connection as a touching reminder of their shared history.

Her comments also echoed the image Van Der Beek projected during his final months. Even after revealing his cancer diagnosis, the actor frequently shared heartfelt family moments on social media. His final Instagram post celebrated the shared birthday of his father and daughter Annabel, expressing gratitude for both of them and calling them two of the greatest blessings in his life.

Following his passing, Kimberly Van Der Beek revealed that her husband spent his final days with “courage, faith, and peace.” Friends who visited him during that difficult period also shared emotional tributes, describing a man who remained surrounded by loved ones and devoted every remaining moment to his family.

For Larter, those memories have only reinforced the legacy Van Der Beek leaves behind. While she continues to mourn the loss of a friend and colleague, she believes his greatest achievement wasn’t found on a movie set or television screen—it was creating a meaningful life beyond Hollywood.

Today, James Van Der Beek is remembered not only for the unforgettable characters he brought to life, but also for the grace with which he faced life’s greatest challenges. And for Ali Larter, that knowledge offers a measure of comfort amid the grief.

“He found happiness,” she said. “And I think that’s what matters most.”