James Van Der Beek honored his beloved daughter in his final social media post just two weeks before his death from cancer at 48.

The Dawson’s Creek legend passed away following a two-year battle with colorectal cancer on Wednesday.

Van Der Beek, who is survived by six children and wife Kimberly, shared a poignant photograph with daughter Annabel, 12, and dad Jim on their birthdays on January 25.

A frail Van Der Beek, clad in a woolen hat and looking noticeably thin, embraced his daughter in the snap, which was captioned: ‘My father and my daughter share a birthday today. At first, I thought that was all they shared – they seemed so different to me.

‘But as the two of you have evolved, and let more of who you are shine through, I can recognize the same open, warm, loving, gentle heart. I see the care and dedication you shower upon those you love most.

‘I see the same out-of-the-box Aquarian creativity and originality. And you both make every room you’re in more fun. Different senses of humor, but you both have a way of alchemizing the vibe around you in such a subtle way one can almost miss how powerfully you do this.

James Van Der Beek honored his beloved daughter in his final social media post just two weeks before his death from cancer at 48
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James Van Der Beek honored his beloved daughter in his final social media post just two weeks before his death from cancer at 48

Van Der Beek,  is survived by six children and wife Kimberly
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Van Der Beek,  is survived by six children and wife Kimberly

‘In this crazy world, it’s a wonder to me that you’ve managed to stay so open, so tender, and so genuinely good.

‘You are marvels… and I’m so insanely grateful to have you in my life.

‘The world is a better place because the two of you are in it.

‘Happy birthday, guys. I love you with all my heart.’

The actor’s loved ones confirmed his passing in an emotional Instagram post on Wednesday.

It read: ‘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.’

The actor and his wife share daughters Olivia, 15, Annabel, Emilia, nine, and Gwendolyn, seven, as well as sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, four.