Actor James Van Der Beekbest known for his leading role in the iconic WB drama Dawson’s Creekdied Wednesday at age 48 after a courageous battle with colorectal cancer. His family confirmed his death in a statement shared on Instagram.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” the statement read. “He met his final days with courage, faith and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love of humanity and the sanctity of time. Those days will come. For now we pray for peaceful privacy as we mourn our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
Van Der Beek received a colorectal cancer diagnosis in 2023 and revealed it publicly in 2024. He spoke openly about his treatment and encouraged early screening and prevention, using his platform to raise awareness of the disease. In interviews, he described the diagnosis as a “low point” and said it challenged his sense of identity as a father, husband and provider, but he found strength in love and resilience.
The actor rose to prominence in 1998 as the earnest, introspective Dawson Leery, at the center of Dawson’s Creekwhich ran for six seasons until 2003. The series helped define late-1990s teen television and established Van Der Beek as one of the era’s most recognizable young actors.
He expanded his career with a leading role in the 1999 cult sports film Varsity Blues and later appeared in television series including Don’t Trust B—- in Apartment 23, CSI: Cyber, Pose, Mercy, and Friends with better lives. His film credits also included The Rules of Attraction, Labor Day, and Texas Rangers. His last appearance on screen came in 2025 Overruled 2: Intercepted.
James also participated in a virtual Dawson’s Creek reunion last year to help raise money for cancer charities, continuing to support causes important to him during his illness. He is survived by his wife Kimberly and their six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah, who stood by him throughout his struggle.
Van Der Beek leaves behind a body of work that shaped a generation of television viewers and remains closely associated with one of the defining teen dramas of its time. Colleagues and fans remember him for the honesty and vulnerability he brought to his performances.
Rest in peace, James Van Der Beek.
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