Heather McComb has spoken about a deeply personal exchange with James Van Der Beek before his death, saying his support for her new marriage is something she will carry with her forever.
McComb, 49, wed actor Scott Michael Campbell on May 30 in Missoula, Montana. The ceremony came just over three months after Van Der Beek died on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer.
During a recent interview with Us Weekly, McComb reflected on her final meeting with her former husband and shared the words that stayed with her.
“I will share one thing because I think it’s beautiful,” McComb told the outlet.
“James and Kimberly both knew that Scott and I were getting married and they both were so full of love and support and excitement.”
She also spoke warmly about Van Der Beek’s wife Kimberly, 44, whom he married in 2010 after his divorce from McComb was finalized.
“The love and respect and admiration I have for Kimberly is unparalleled,” she said, calling the pair “true soulmates.”
McComb explained that Van Der Beek’s encouragement meant a great deal as she entered this next chapter of her life.
“Just to have his blessing on this marriage was something that I will always hold on my heart,” she said.
“I think that when I look back, that is really what I hold in my heart, is just how he loved everybody in his life.”
She said the wedding itself felt filled with meaningful moments and what seemed like signs from loved ones who had died.
“I know we had a lot of people up in heaven shining on us that day,” she said.
“It was magical in the sense that we saw a double rainbow, two ladybugs and two white doves.”
“I feel that is significant to Scott and I spiritually, and all the people that we lost.”
McComb and Van Der Beek met as young actors and married in 2003. They announced their separation in April 2009, with the divorce completed in 2010. Van Der Beek later married Kimberly the same year, and the couple went on to have six children together: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.
Best known to many viewers for playing Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek remained a familiar television presence long after his teen-idol years, with later roles in series including Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23 and CSI: Cyber.
In November 2024, Van Der Beek publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer in August 2023. His family announced on February 11, 2026, that he had died peacefully that morning.
After his passing, tributes poured in from fans and fellow actors, reflecting on both his screen career and the warmth McComb described in her memories of him.
McComb also paid tribute on Instagram by posting a photograph from his 21st birthday and remembering him with affection.
“I am heartbroken over the loss of beloved James,” she wrote at the time.
“This is how I will always see James, innocent, kind and pure of heart.”
She later acknowledged that Van Der Beek’s openness about his illness had touched many people beyond his own circle.
Now settling into married life, McComb said she feels immense joy about her future with Campbell. In announcing their wedding on Instagram, she described the couple’s hearts as “full.”
“I got to marry my best friend in the whole world,” she gushed.
“I love being Scott’s wife. I’m so excited and ready for it.”
She also said she is embracing the seriousness of the vows they made to one another.
“I know the levity of the commitment we made under the covenant of God,” she said, “and I am just so excited.”