James Van Der Beek: Dawson’s Creek Star Dies at 48

James Van Der Beek, the actor who became a defining face of 1990s teen television with his role as Dawson Leery in “Dawson’s Creek,” has died at the age of 48. His passing, announced on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, follows a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, which he publicly revealed in November 2024.

The news was shared via a post on Van Der Beek’s official Instagram account, stating he “passed peacefully this morning.” The statement, also posted by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, spoke of his courage, faith, and grace in his final days, and requested privacy for the family as they grieve. A representative confirmed the news to USA Today and shared a link to a GoFundMe established for the family.

Van Der Beek’s diagnosis came in August 2023, though he kept the illness private for over a year. He spoke openly about his experience in the months following his public disclosure, sharing the emotional toll the disease took on his sense of identity. According to an interview with Business Insider, he described feeling as though core parts of himself – his roles as a father, provider, and husband – were “taken away, or at least paused,” forcing him to confront the question of his worth beyond those definitions.

Born James David Van Der Beek, the actor rose to prominence with “Dawson’s Creek,” which premiered in 1998 and ran for six seasons on the WB network. The series, created by Kevin Williamson, captured the anxieties and aspirations of a generation, and launched Van Der Beek, alongside co-stars Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams, to international stardom. He portrayed Dawson Leery, an aspiring filmmaker navigating the complexities of adolescence, first love, and friendship in the fictional town of Capeside, Massachusetts.

Beyond “Dawson’s Creek,” Van Der Beek maintained a consistent presence in film and television. He is also remembered for his role in the 1999 sports comedy “Varsity Blues,” where he played Mox Eppley, a talented but rebellious football player. More recently, he continued to work despite his health challenges, appearing in the CW’s “Walker” in 2024 and Amazon Prime Video’s comedy “Overcompensating” in 2025.

In a surprising turn, Van Der Beek also participated in the 2025 season of Fox’s “The Masked Singer,” showcasing a playful side to his public persona. He was also slated to appear in Amazon Prime’s upcoming “Legally Blonde” prequel, “Elle,” as Dean Wilson, a school district superintendent and mayoral candidate. This role was to be one of his final projects.

Even as his health declined, Van Der Beek remained active on social media, connecting with fans and sharing glimpses into his life. Just two weeks before his death, he posted a heartfelt message celebrating the joint birthday of his father and one of his daughters, expressing gratitude for their enduring goodness.

The actor’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike. While specific statements from co-stars were not detailed in available reports, the Dutch publication Nieuwsblad reported on widespread emotional responses from within the Hollywood community, describing Van Der Beek as “family.”

Van Der Beek’s diagnosis and subsequent battle with colorectal cancer brought attention to the importance of early detection and screening. He openly discussed his experience with bowel movement changes, a common symptom of the disease, and encouraged others to prioritize their health. According to the BBC, he revealed he initially attempted to address the changes by eliminating coffee before seeking a screening, which ultimately led to his diagnosis.

Colorectal cancer, which develops from growths in the colon’s inner lining, can be effectively treated if detected early. Increased screenings have contributed to a decrease in mortality rates, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Van Der Beek’s willingness to share his story served as a powerful reminder of the importance of proactive healthcare.

James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. His legacy extends beyond his on-screen performances, encompassing a commitment to family, a willingness to be vulnerable, and a dedication to raising awareness about critical health issues. He leaves behind a body of work that resonated with audiences for decades and a memory that will continue to inspire.