James Van Der Beek, widely recognized for his earlier work, delivered a gripping performance in his final film role before his death. The thriller “The Gates” features Van Der Beek as Jacob, a dark and unsettling pastor. The film’s story revolves around three college students who witness Jacob committing a murder while passing through a remote gated community.
The first trailer for “The Gates” was released by Lionsgate shortly after Van Der Beek’s passing. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on March 13. Van Der Beek’s portrayal leans heavily into a sinister character, marking a departure from roles that originally made him a teen heartthrob.
In addition to this film, Van Der Beek will appear posthumously in the upcoming prequel series to “Legally Blonde,” titled “Elle.” His family confirmed that Van Der Beek passed away peacefully after a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, a diagnosis he publicly disclosed in late 2024. He died at the age of 48.
Van Der Beek’s career continued actively until the end, with “The Gates” standing as a testament to his range as an actor. His final performances will remain a significant part of his legacy in the entertainment industry.