Sarah Michelle Gellar believes James Van Der Beek's legacy "will always live on"

The 48-year-old actress wrote on Instagram: "I'm so sad for your beautiful family. While James' legacy will always live on, this is a huge loss to not just your family but the world. F*** Cancer. (sic)"

Chad Michael Murray has also heaped praise on James, and has expressed sympathy for the TV star's family.

He wrote: "Sending love and light to your beautiful family. James was a giant. We're so so so sorry for what you're going through. His words, art and humanity inspired all of us- he inspired us to be better in all ways. God bless you guys."

Elsewhere, Emma Slater - who served as James' professional partner on Dancing With the Stars in 2019 - has confessed to feeling "devastated" by his passing.

The dancer wrote: "I'm so devastated. He is and will always be family to me. Love you so much James. The man that you are, you can be proud of. So grateful that I got to be there to say goodbye to you."

James was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer back in 2023, and his passing was announced by Kimberly Van Der Beek, his wife.

Alongside a photo of her husband, Kimberly wrote on Instagram: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."