Dawson’s Creek Star James Van Der Beek Dies At 48
On Wednesday (February 11), Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek passed away following a battle with cancer. The actor was 48 years old.
James’ wife Kimberly shared the devastating news in a joint Instagram post.
“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.”
In August of 2023, James was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer and later went public with the diagnosis in November 2024. He is survived by Kimberly and their six beautiful children.
RELATED: James Van Der Beek’s “DWTS” Family Remember Him In Heartfelt Tributes
James Van Der Beek’s Successful Acting Career
James is best-known for portraying Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, a role he landed after dropping out of college. He starred with Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams during the series’ six seasons from 1998 to 2003.
He also played Mox in Varsity Blues, Sean Bateman in The Rules of Attraction, and more. The actor won various awards throughout his career, including MTV Movie Awards, Teen Choice Awards, and Young Hollywood Awards.
James married Kimberly in 2010 and together the couple shared daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, and Gwendolyn, and sons, Joshua and Jeremiah. James previously referred to fatherhood as “the most treasured honor” of his life.
Actress Katie Holmes Shares Touching Tribute For James
Just hours after Kimberly announced James’ passing, his former co-star Katie Holmes shared an emotional tribute. James and Katie’s characters on Dawson’s Creek were childhood best friends whose relationship evolved into an on-again, off-again romance that anchored the series.
Dawson’s Creek aired for six seasons from 1998 to 2003. Katie posted a letter she wrote to James, reflecting on their journey together.
“I formed some words with a heavy heart,” she wrote in the caption. “This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’ journey. He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children.”
The actress began by thanking James, saying that “sharing space with your imagination is sacred, breathing the same air in the land of make believe and trusting that each others’ hearts are safe in their expression..”
Katie went on to praise his life: “Bravery. Compassion. Selfnessness. Strength. An appreciation for life and the action taken to live life with the integrity that life is art – creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children – the journey of a hero.”
Last year, James was forced to withdraw from a planned Dawson’s Creek reunion on stage in New York. The event was organized to raise funds for cancer charities, as well as to support the actor himself.
Since his death Wednesday, James’ family has raised more than $1.3 million through a GoFundMe, which you can find here.
Our thoughts and prayers are with James Van Der Beek’s family during this unimaginable time.