James Van Der Beek Pays Tribute To Ron Lester, His ‘Varsity Blues’ Co-Star

Ron Lester, best know for his roll as Billy Bob in 1999’s Varsity Blues, died Friday due to liver and kidney failure.

The day after the news had broke, Lester’s Blues co-star James Van Der Beek paid tribute to him on Twitter. Van Der Beek commended Lester’s character and acting talents:

Sad day… #RonLester was a sensitive soul with a huge heart. Everything you loved about Billy Bob was authentically Ron. #RIP bud.

— James Van Der Beek (@vanderjames) June 18, 2016

I’ll never forget how committed #RonLester was on every take – even when the camera wasn’t on him… #giving #rare https://t.co/YwZte8LpQW

— James Van Der Beek (@vanderjames) June 18, 2016

Lester had been hospitalized four months ago and was only recently moved to the intensive care unit. Doctors removed his ventilator on Friday.

“He was not in pain and passed away peacefully,” Lester’s agent, Dave Bradley, wrote on Facebook.

Other condolences shared on social media include Freaks & Geeks creator Paul Feig and Lester’s co-star on the WB show Popular Christoper Gorham.

So sad to have lost a beloved member of the Freaks & Geeks team, Ron Lester, who was so great as Seidleman. A hilarious actor & kind soul.

— Paul Feig (@paulfeig) June 19, 2016

Rest in peace, old friend. I’m glad I knew you. Heartbroken for his fiancé, family and friends. #BigSugar #BigHeart https://t.co/eM7A5FClIq

— Christopher Gorham (@ChrisGorham) June 18, 2016