The family of James Van Der Beek has shared a deeply emotional moment with fans after the late actor’s nine-year-old daughter recorded a heartfelt video message honoring her father on what would have been his 49th birthday. The tribute, posted by his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek, offered a rare and moving glimpse into how the actor’s children are coping following his death earlier this year after a battle with stage-3 colorectal cancer.

In the self-recorded video, Emilia Van Der Beek sat outside on the family’s Texas ranch and spoke directly to viewers about grief, explaining that she wanted to share “little tips” to help people who are struggling with the loss of someone they love. The young girl described how she continues to feel connected to her father by speaking to him every day, beginning with the simple words, “Hi Dad, I miss you and I love you so much.” She explained that sharing her thoughts and emotions helps her cope with the pain of losing him.

Emilia also reflected on the complex emotions that follow the death of a loved one, telling viewers that it is normal to feel sadness, anger, or confusion while grieving. At the same time, she said she takes comfort in believing her father is now at peace. “He’s not in pain anymore,” she explained in the video, adding that she believes he is now “in heaven above the clouds.”

One of the most personal details shared in the tribute involved a small object that helps her keep her father close. Emilia revealed that she has been wearing one of her father’s hats because it still carries his familiar scent, a reminder that brings her comfort during difficult moments.

The young girl also recalled a message her father gave her during his illness — advice that has stayed with her since his passing. According to Emilia, her father encouraged her to keep believing in miracles even if life does not unfold the way people hope. She said he told her that miracles can still happen later in life, even if they arrive in unexpected ways.

The video concluded with Emilia thanking the many supporters who contributed to a fundraising campaign set up by friends of the family after the actor’s death, which has raised millions of dollars to help support Kimberly Van Der Beek and the couple’s six children.

Van Der Beek, best known for playing Dawson Leery in the television series Dawson’s Creek, died on February 11 at the age of 48. His passing prompted tributes from colleagues and fans around the world, many of whom have praised the actor not only for his career on screen but also for his devotion to his family.

For the Van Der Beek family, the birthday tribute marked a poignant milestone — the first time they have celebrated the actor’s birthday since his death. According to Kimberly, the family plans to continue honoring March 8 each year as a day dedicated to remembering the life, love, and legacy he left behind.