June Diane Raphael pens emotional tribute to the late James Van Der Beek

June Diane Raphael feels “honoured” to have worked with James Van Der Beek.

In a recent interview with PEOPLE magazine, “I consider my time with James the most meaningful time I’ve spent in my career. I’m so honoured to have had that time with him and to have shared those scenes with him”. She continued, “There’s an ease about him that I found really amazing”.

June’s biggest major project with the actor was his love for his six children, whom he shared with his wife, Kimberly.

Whilst she reflected on the days spent with the actor, she noted, “The main thing I’m walking away with is James whenever there’s a spare moment, and they call, ‘Cut,’ and sometimes even when they didn’t was just always talking about his family, and his kids, and how much he adored them.” June said the pair bonded immediately over their shared love of family.

She explained, “We connected on that level so immediately. He was just so enamoured with his children and his wife, Kimberly, and told me all about them.”

The comedian continued, “I know how careful and judicious so many actors are about what sets they’ll bring their kids onto. So, the fact that he did that a few times meant the world to me, because it means this is a workspace you want modelled for your daughters, especially.

“It was really cool for them to see their dad work. It was really a special experience,” June Diane Raphael said of James Van Der Beek. James’ family announced his passing via a social media post in February.

They wrote on Instagram at the time, “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. (sic)

The 46-year-old actress starred alongside James, who died in February, aged 48, after a year-long cancer battle, in Elle, the new Legally Blonde prequel series, and June has very fond memories of working with the late actor.