James Van Der Beek's Former DWTS Partner Emma Slater Says the Show Was Really Good for the Actor and

May 2024 ยท 2 minute read

"DWTS" alum, Emma Slater, has come out to air her views on how much effect the show had on her fellow dance partner and actor, James Van Der Beek, and his family.

Emma shared that James, whom she teamed up with for the show's season 28th episode, is an excellent dad who serves as an inspiration to his five children.

Actor James Van Der Beek (L) and Dancer / TV Personality Emma Slater (R) attend the Birthday Celebration for Keo Motsepe on November 30, 2019 in Los Angeles, California | Photo: Getty Images

The "Dawson's Creek" star and his children seem to have a connection with his career choice, and his co-dancer mentioned that his persistence on the show has helped his kids understand the power of passion and breaking barriers.

James Van Der Beek attends the 71st Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater | Photo: Getty Images

Even though the dancers didn't make it to the finals, they both feel accomplished. James, on the other hand, experienced a tragedy before his elimination, and that may have affected his dancing skills.

The 42-year-old's wife, Kimberly, suffered a miscarriage, and him getting off the show only made it easier for his wife to have her husband's support.

Emma Slater poses at "Dancing with the Stars" Season 28 at CBS Television City on November 11, 2019 in Los Angeles, California | Photo: Getty Images

"Kimberly, his wife, who is still recovering, even now, really did need to have some family time. She would have liked to have seen her husband in the finale...I think the silver lining was that getting him to be at home was so healing for her."

Kimberly Brook (L) and James Van Der Beek attend the 2019 InStyle and Warner Bros. 76th Annual Golden Globe Awards Post-Party at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 6, 2019 in Beverly Hills, California | Photo: Getty Images

Recently, the actor opened up about his pain and how well his family is going through the healing process. James thanked his loved ones and close friends whose steadfastness has helped him and his wife.

Actor James Van Der Beek (R) and wife Kimberly Van Der Beek arrive at Logo's "NewNowNext Awards" 2011 at Avalon on April 7, 2011 in Hollywood, California | Photo: Getty Images

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