James Van Der Beek Shares Emotional Post for Daughter Annabel's 11th Birthday: 'Tough Year to Be So Sensitive'

Mar. 15, 2025

Annabel Leah Van Der Beek with dad James Van Der Beek.Photo:James Van Der Beek/Instagram

James Van Der Beek/Instagram

On Saturday, Jan. 25, theDawson’s Creekalum, 47, celebrated the 11th birthday of his daughter, Annabel Leah — one of hissix childrenhe shares with wifeKimberly Van Der Beek— with an emotionalInstagram post, which included a heartfelt caption about her kind and empathetic nature.

James Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.James Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.James Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.PHOTO:James Van Der Beek/InstagramJames Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.PHOTO:James Van Der Beek/Instagram

James Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.James Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.

James Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.

James Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.PHOTO:James Van Der Beek/InstagramJames Van Der Beek’s daughter Annabel.PHOTO:James Van Der Beek/Instagram

He was also sure to include photos of Annabel hanging with her siblings, interacting with animals and playing with flowers — all of which demonstrated her “sweet” nature, which he elaborated upon in an emotional birthday message.

“11 years old today,” James began his caption. “There are sweet souls… and then there’s you. The softest, most empathetic heart I know.”

He went on to tell his preteen that “it’s been a really tough year to be so sensitive, and so connected to me, who’s not been well in so many moments - which I know you know without my even having to be in the room.”

The actor seemingly referred to hisrecent cancer diagnosis, which he announced in November 2024. “I have colorectal cancer,” he told PEOPLE exclusively at the time. “I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family

“There’s reason for optimism,” the star added, “and I’m feeling good.”

James Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.James Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.James Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.PHOTO:James Van Der Beek/InstagramJames Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.PHOTO:James Van Der Beek/Instagram

James Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.James Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.

James Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.

James Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.PHOTO:James Van Der Beek/InstagramJames Van Der Beek with wife Kimberly and daughter Annabel.PHOTO:James Van Der Beek/Instagram

Continuing his birthday message to Annabel, James wrote, “But as I emerge from this healing portal, I wish for you to experience the joy and laughter you so richly deserve to feel as deeply as the concern and worry.”

“Thank you for coming Earthside, kiddo. Life is a much more joyful endeavor with you around,” he concluded. “Always in your corner… ❤️ Dad.”

James Van Der Beek’s family.James Van Der Beek Instagram

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James shares six children with wife Kimberly: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and their latest addition, 3-year-old Jeremiah.

source: people.com