James Van Der Beek just paid beautiful tribute to his “Varsity Blues” costar who recently passed away

More sad news from Hollywood — actor Ron Lester passed away on Friday at the age of 45. Lester is best known for playing Billy Bob in Varsity Blues and then hilariously parodying his character in the movie Not Another Teen Movie. He was also known for his role as Michael Bernadino, aka “Sugar Daddy,” on the TV series Popular.

Van Der Beek took to Twitter to remember his friend in a beautiful tribute, writing, “Sad day… #RonLester was a sensitive soul with a huge heart. Everything you loved about Billy Bob was authentically Ron. #RIP bud” false

Adding, “I’ll never forget how committed #RonLester was on every take — even when the camera wasn’t on him… #giving #rare” false

Lester sadly died from liver failure, according to CinemaBlend.

Other friends and costars have also been paying tribute on social media. false false false false false

We’re really going to need 2016 to calm down. Be safe out there, everyone. RIP, Billy Bob. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=