Hollywood Star James Van Der Beek Passes Away At 48, Confirm Family
The actor best known for “Dawson’s Creek” has died, prompting tributes across the entertainment industry.
Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek has died at age 48 after a prolonged battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, his family announced on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Renowned for his breakout role as Dawson Leery on the seminal 1990s teen drama, Van Der Beek’s passing marks the end of a celebrated acting career that spanned more than two decades.
In a heartfelt statement shared on social media by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, the family said he “met his final days with courage, faith, and grace” and asked for privacy as they grieve their “loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.” The actor passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, after openly documenting his health journey following his cancer diagnosis.
Van Der Beek rose to prominence in 1998 as the titular character of Dawson’s Creek, a defining teen series that ran for six seasons and helped launch the careers of several young actors, including Katie Holmes and Michelle Williams. The show’s emotional storytelling and articulate dialogue resonated with audiences worldwide, cementing Van Der Beek as a cultural icon of late-1990s television.
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Beyond Dawson’s Creek, he appeared in films such as the football drama Varsity Blues and a variety of television roles, including Don’t Trust the B- in Apartment 23, CSI: Cyber, and guest spots on How I Met Your Mother and Pose. Known for both dramatic and comedic turns, Van Der Beek embraced his public persona with self-aware humor while also delivering nuanced performances in diverse genres.
In 2024, Van Der Beek publicly revealed his colorectal cancer diagnosis, using his platform to raise awareness about early detection and the realities of living with serious illness. In the months before his death, he and supporters—among them fellow actor Paul Walter Hauser—raised funds to assist with mounting medical costs. Fans and peers responded with an outpouring of support following news of his passing, celebrating his impact on entertainment and his dedication to family.
He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. Tributes from co-stars, friends, and fans highlight Van Der Beek’s warmth, professionalism, and the lasting influence of his work on multiple generations of viewers.
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