James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his iconic role as Dawson Leery in the late-1990s teen drama Dawson’s Creek, has passed away at the age of 48. His family confirmed the news earlier today, revealing that he died peacefully after a courageous fight against colorectal cancer.
In a heartfelt statement posted to Van Der Beek’s official Instagram account by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, the family shared: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023 (with some reports citing August 2023 or later public disclosure in November 2024). He bravely shared aspects of his journey publicly, including reflections on faith, dignity, and the lessons cancer taught him about self-worth and God’s love. In one poignant message, he emphasized being “worthy of God’s love simply because I exist.”
Born on March 8, 1977, in Cheshire, Connecticut, Van Der Beek rose to fame as the sensitive, introspective lead in Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003), a cultural touchstone for a generation navigating adolescence in the late ’90s and early 2000s. His portrayal of the aspiring filmmaker opposite Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, and Joshua Jackson earned him widespread recognition and a lasting place in pop culture history.
Beyond Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek starred in the 1999 football drama Varsity Blues alongside Jon Voight and Paul Walker, as well as films like The Rules of Attraction (2002) and various television roles in later years, including appearances in Pose, Friends with Better Lives, and guest spots on shows like Criminal Minds. He was also a father of six children—Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, Joshua, and Jeremiah—with his wife Kimberly, whom he married in 2010.
Tributes have poured in across social media and from fans, with many remembering his earnest performances and the vulnerability he brought to his roles. Posts on X (formerly Twitter) highlighted his impact, with sentiments like “RIP to a 90s legend” and calls for privacy during the family’s grief.
Van Der Beek’s death marks another loss in a year that has seen several prominent figures in entertainment face health challenges. No further details on funeral arrangements or memorial services have been announced, as the family has requested privacy at this time.
He is survived by his wife, six children, and extended family. May he rest in peace. 💔🕊️