Varsity Blues co-star reflects on James Van Der Beek’s legacy

Friends, fans and former colleagues continue to celebrate life James Van Der Beekwho died at the age of 48 after a battle with stage three colorectal cancer. Among those reflecting on his legacy are “Varsity Blues” co-star Eliel Swinton, who spoke emotionally during the appearance on Good Day LA, Fox reports.

Swinton called the past 24 hours overwhelming and began by offering his condolences to Van Der Beek’s wife and family. He described his former colleague as an “incredible” person whose presence left a lasting impression on everyone around him.

‘We were like a legitimate football team’

Swinton revisited the experience of filming the 1999 football drama, which has become a defining film for many millennials. He explained that the cast was fully committed to their roles, training together and creating a chemistry that portrayed a true high school team.

“It was wonderful. It was an honor to be in that movie,” Swinton said. He noted that the group practiced hard and formed strong bonds off camera. At one point, the preparation was so authentic that he joked that he called his mom and asked if he somehow went back to his football days.

The camaraderie of the cast extended to rehearsals as well. Swinton recalled hanging out with his teammates and learning from veteran actor Jon Voight, who often acted like Coach Kilmer even when the cameras stopped rolling. That impressive environment shaped both performances and friendships.

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Van Der Beek’s growing fame from “Dawson’s Creek” brought another layer to the experience. Swinton recalled walking down the street with him when suddenly a large crowd followed. “I’m like, this is the life you’re living? This is crazy,” he said, reflecting on the intensity of that attention.

Celebrity aside, Swinton emphasized Van Der Beek’s character. He described him as thoughtful and sincere, someone capable of deep conversation while showing genuine concern for others.

“You could have an intellectual conversation,” Swinton said, adding that his co-star has real love in her heart. When asked what he hopes people remember, he clearly replied: “That what you see is what you get. He called Van Der Beek a person who really cared and said the loss ‘hurts bad.’

“Varsity Blues” remains widely cited decades after its release, but for Swinton, the memories center on shared practices, brotherhood and authenticity. Those closest to Van Der Beek emphasize not only his roles, but the kindness and sincerity he brought to every room.