Reese Witherspoon feels "devastated" by James Van Der Beek's death

The Oscar-winning star said on Instagram Story: "Devastated to hear about James Van Der Beek. What an extraordinary, talented man who also showed great kindness and grace in every action. Praying all the angels watch over his family during this difficult time."

Ben Stiller has also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late actor.

Ben, 60, wrote on X: "Really saddened at this news. I didn't really know James Van Der Beek, but you could feel his heart. What a loss - and how bravely and intentionally he chose to help people through his experience. He just seemed like a great person and loving family man and he gave the world so much. Sending love to his family. [heart emoji] (sic)"

Meanwhile, Melissa Joan Hart previously admitted to being heartbroken by the news of James' passing.

The 49-year-old actress shared her first-ever on-screen kiss with James, and she recalled bumping into the actor "about two years ago when he sang a song with his daughter".

She wrote on Instagram: "I'm heartbroken to hear that @vanderjames has passed away. He was truly a nice guy, a great father, wonderful actor and will always be my first on screen kiss when he guest starred on #ClarissaExplainsItAll.

"Gone way too soon but it seems like he put up one hell of a fight. We ran into each other at the singing game show #WeAreFamily about two years ago when he sang a song with his daughter, encouraging her like a good dad does. My thoughts and prayers go out to his 6 kids, his wife and family! (sic)"