TVTV NewsPrime VideoThe late actor's role in the Legally Blonde prequel series was one of his last before his untimely passing08:02, 04 Jul 2026Updated 08:02, 04 Jul 2026Legally Blonde prequel series Elle finally landed this week and one emotional detail has not passed fans by.‌The Prime Video show is set years before the events of the hit 2001 romcom that inspired it, in which Reese Witherspoon brought to life the iconic Elle Woods.‌While the original centred around Elle's journey of self-discovery as an adult, the eight-episode prequel takes viewers back to Elle's school days, with actor Lexi Minetree embodying the iconic character this time around.‌As per the official synopsis: "Before Elle Woods was a fish-out-of-water at Harvard, we meet her in 1995 as a fish in the tumultuous waters of high school where she encounters tricky friendships, forbidden romance, and questionable fashion choices."Along the way, Elle learns how to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations, stoking a curiosity that helps her unravel a mystery that touches all aspects of her life including her family, ultimately igniting a lifelong passion for justice."‌Among the glittering cast in the show is the late actor James Van Der Beek who first appears in Episode 3. He plays Dean Wilson, the school district superintendent who dreams of becoming mayor.Tragically it was one of his final TV roles, as he passed away in February this year at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer, and the show has included a touching tribute to the star.Ahead of Episode 3's credits, viewers are shown a title card tribute which reads: "In loving memory of James Van Der Beek."‌His posthumous appearance in the show has left many viewers emotional. One remarked: "I was completely taken by surprise seeing him on my screen," as a second added: "So hard to believe he is gone.""I cried when I saw him," confessed a third viewer, as another penned: "I was not expecting him to be on my screen. Rest in peace."Article continues below"I wasn't prepared to see James Van Der Beek in Elle," yet another viewer admitted. "Nobody warned me James Van Der Beek was in Elle I literally wanna cry," said a sixth person.All episodes of Elle are available to stream on Prime Video at once and for fans who loved it, there is good news. Production has already started on a second season which was given the green light before the first even aired. It is expected to arrive in 2027.Elle Season 1 is now streaming on Prime Video.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Prime VideoJames Van Der BeekReese Witherspoon