How long were James Van Der Beek and Heather McComb together before splitting? Relationship explored as actress marries Scott Michael Campbell

CineVegas Film Festival 2005 - "Standing Still" - Premiere - Source: Getty
CineVegas Film Festival 2005 - "Standing Still" - Premiere - Source: Getty

Heather McComb tied the knot with actor Scott Michael Campbell in a small wedding that took place in Missoula, Montana. While everyone showered them with congratulations, all eyes were also on Heather's earlier marriage to the late actor, James Van Der Beek.

Heather McComb and James Van Der Beek came to know each other through Jennifer McComb, Heather's sister, who had done an episode in James' popular TV series Dawson’s Creek in 1998. The pair soon dated throughout the late 90s and got engaged in early 2003.

The two got married in July of the same year in a garden wedding at Malibu, California.

UBid.com And Hollywood Stars Launch Auction For Hurricane Victims - Source: Getty
UBid.com And Hollywood Stars Launch Auction For Hurricane Victims - Source: Getty

However, Heather McComb and James Van Der Beek separated in April 2009 after nearly six years of marriage, citing "irreconcilable differences."

Further, reports indicated the two were on different pages regarding their future, particularly regarding Heather McComb's reported desire to delay starting a family while James Van Der Beek was ready to become a father.

Nonetheless, the two finalized their divorce in 2010 through amicable mediation and maintained a positive friendship, according to the actor's representative.


James Van Der Beek married Kimberly Brook shortly after splitting from Heather McComb

James Van Der Beek married his second wife, Kimberly Brook, whom he met in Israel in 2009. They married in 2010 and stayed together for 15 years until his death in February 2026.

They have six children together: Olivia (born September 2010), Joshua (born March 2012), Annabel (born January 2014), Emilia (born March 2016), Gwendolyn (born June 2018), and Jeremiah (born October 2021)

In an interview with People following his death, Kimberly revealed that she and James renewed their vows while he was on his deathbed.

"We decided two days beforehand and our friends got us new rings, filled our bedroom with flowers and candles and we renewed our vows from bed."

The vow renewal also took place six months after the actor posted a heartfelt message to his wife on Instagram.

"15 years ago today, this woman agreed to be my bride. @vanderkimberly you are the most extraordinary human I've ever met. One day, I'll tell the story of what you've endured these last two years and how you've shown up, time and time and time again. You have not only saved my life … you've shown me what it is to live."

Heather McComb and Scott Michael Campbell tie the knot

Meanwhile, Heather McComb announced she married Scott Michael Campbell, describing a faith-centered ceremony officiated by her sister and attended by close friends and family.

"Yesterday @scottmichaelcampbell and I under the covenant of God got officially married by my beautiful sister @essence_says surround[ed] by the people we love most in the world in our most favorite city Missoula Montana."

The Party of Five star continued:

"Our hearts are full and humbled by all of the love that we were surrounded by. God is so good. Thank you to all of our family and friends who traveled from all over the country to be with us. Thank you Jesus the way maker miracle worker!"

While Heather and Scott have known each other for years professionally, they reportedly didn't date right away.

In 2024, they were publicly linked as a couple.

On May 30, they registered for their wedding in Missoula, Montana.

In the wake of her ex-husband James' passing, Heather shared a touching tribute on social media, alongside a black-and-white photo of them together.

"What a journey we shared over the years. I sit here in immense gratitude for the special connection, friendship and love that James and I shared that has endured through decades. I will treasure the last loving words we exchanged."

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Edited by Gladys Altamarino