James Van Der Beek’s stylist has broken his silence following the legendary actor’s death.
After James’ death on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, Iilaria Urbinati, stylist of the late actor, wrote an emotional tribute on Instagram. In an emotional message, he recalled the time he spent with the actor.
The stylist wrote: “15 years of friendship. Years of memories and adjustments and children (and more children), of weekly baby music lessons, life events, bonding over ups and downs, of wise parenting advice that has shaped me as a parent like no one else has.”
Ilaria continued: “Over a decade of fittings – the way he loved clothes! The way he was endlessly amused by my bossiness. He had the deepest, best laughs. The way he and Kimberly took me as a friend first, and ultimately as family – as they have done with so many.”
“The way I remember all their children as babies. The flowers he sent me every birthday (a class act he was). The way they shared their spirituality, their love of family and their love of health. And were an example to all,” he continued.
“I don’t even know where to begin to explain what kind of person James was. Warm. Generous. Open. Self-deprecating. So comfortable in vulnerability. I’ve never seen anyone love and adore their wife and children the way he did. Or be so open with his affection – he sent the warmest texts out of the blue.”
Additionally, Ilaria revealed that James Van Der Beek “worked hard for his family” in his final days. He wrote: “I don’t think I will ever meet anyone again who is so serene and joyful through such adversities.”
“He could make you believe in a miracle. If anyone deserves a miracle, it was him and his incredible family,” Ilaria noted.
Concluding the emotional note, Ilaria Urbinati wrote: “The truth is that his beautiful life and the way he touched so many was its own kind of magic. I love you James. Thank you for everything.”
James Van Der Beek, who died at the age of 48 after a two-year battle with colon cancer, is survived by his wife and six children.
