Austin, Texas is mourning the loss of James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his role in the television series Dawson’s Creek
, who died on , at the age of 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer. His death marks the end of a life that, in its later years, deliberately sought a quieter existence away from the glare of Hollywood, a move that began almost six years prior to his passing.
The decision by Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, to relocate their family from Los Angeles to a 36-acre property in Austin in 2020 was, according to reports, driven by a desire for a more grounded lifestyle and a greater connection to nature. The couple, who married in 2010, have six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah. Kimberly Van Der Beek expressed a longing to escape the concrete jungle
, a sentiment that resonated with a growing desire to provide their children with more space and a life immersed in the natural world.
James Van Der Beek himself spoke of feeling grounded
in Texas, appreciating the connection to the weather, and seasons. He recalled filming the 1999 film Varsity Blues
in Austin and feeling a pull to return, stating, It was really cool to realize, ‘Oh, I can go be there. We can drop in and bring our family to that.’
The move wasn’t simply about geography, however. it was about a fundamental shift in community. Van Der Beek contrasted the transactional nature of Los Angeles – where assistance often came in the form of deliveries or professional services – with the more neighborly support system he found in Texas, where people readily offered help with tasks like moving, bringing food, or simply lending a hand.
This sense of community was particularly poignant given the family tragedies that preceded the move. While details remain private, the decision to leave Los Angeles appears to have been motivated, in part, by a desire for a fresh start and a supportive environment. The actor was diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer in 2023, a battle he fought for over three years before his death.
The Van Der Beeks’ experience in Texas reflects a broader trend of individuals and families seeking a different pace of life and a stronger sense of belonging outside of major metropolitan areas. Austin, in particular, has experienced significant growth in recent years, attracting residents from across the country with its vibrant culture, outdoor recreational opportunities, and relatively affordable cost of living (compared to cities like Los Angeles and New York). However, this influx has also brought challenges, including increased traffic congestion and rising housing costs.
Beyond the immediate family, Van Der Beek’s passing has resonated with those who remember his early career. His role as Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek
made him a teen idol in the late 1990s, and he continued to work steadily in television and film throughout his career. The news of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike.
Interestingly, the spirit of generosity and community that Van Der Beek found in Texas appears to have touched others as well. A LinkedIn post from , details a story of a grandmother’s lasting impact on her grandson, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin. The grandmother’s farewell letter encouraged her grandson to pursue his dreams and do amazing things and see the world
, a message that ultimately contributed to his successful career and fulfilling life. The post highlights the hands-on village lifestyle
that Van Der Beek described, where individuals support one another and contribute to a strong community fabric.
The passing of James Van Der Beek serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing relationships and finding meaning in everyday experiences. His decision to seek a quieter life in Texas, driven by a desire for family, community, and connection to nature, offers a poignant reflection on the values that truly matter. The actor’s legacy extends beyond his work on screen, encompassing a commitment to family and a search for a more authentic and fulfilling way of life.
A local Austin electrician was also fondly remembered in a Facebook post from , with a commenter recalling his move to Texas with his family. While the connection to Van Der Beek is indirect, it underscores the interconnectedness of lives within the Austin community and the enduring impact individuals can have on those around them.
