James Van Der Beek, the beloved star of Dawson's Creek, tragically passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48.
His death came over a year after he shared his battle with colorectal cancer, a fight that moved many of his fans and peers.
The news was confirmed by his family, who expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt social media statement.
A Peaceful Goodbye: Family’s Emotional Statement
The Van Der Beek family shared the following touching message: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning.
"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."
This heartfelt tribute highlights the grace with which James approached his final days and the profound impact he had on those who knew him.
James Van Der Beek’s Poignant Message to Fans
In the weeks leading up to his death, Van Der Beek took to social media with an insightful and emotional message about rest and self-care.
On January 15, 2026, he posted a video in which he acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining New Year’s resolutions.
"Anyone else out there finding that your New Year’s resolution was impossible to keep? I’m going to say something: I don’t think it’s your fault," he began, sharing his thoughts on the timing of resolutions.
He questioned why we set resolutions during the coldest and darkest months of the year, asking: "Why are we celebrating a new year in the dead of winter? Why are we celebrating new beginnings at a time when nature rests?"
Rest Before Spring: A Time for Reflection and Renewal
Van Der Beek, reflecting on the natural rhythms of life, explained that he planned to spend the winter months focusing on rest and recovery before making new resolutions.
"The time to celebrate a new beginning, and a new you, and a new resolution, is in the spring, at the vernal equinox, when the flowers bloom and it gets warmer and the birds return," he said.
He poignantly noted that nature’s cycle of renewal happens in spring, not in winter. "That’s how nature does it. Why are we fighting nature?" he asked, encouraging his followers to embrace the season’s natural slow pace.
In his Instagram caption, he pointed out the contrast between nature’s rhythm and societal pressures: "In the winter, the days are shorter and the nights are longer.
"But instead of being reminded how perfect this season is for cocooning, eating stew, snuggling and sleeping, why are we being told this is the time to buy a gym membership?"
Tributes From His Co-Stars and Friends
The news of Van Der Beek’s passing has led to an outpouring of tributes from his co-stars and friends in the entertainment industry.
Busy Philipps, who starred alongside him on Dawson’s Creek, shared her grief on Instagram: "My heart is deeply hurting for all of us today…every person who knew James and loved him, anyone who loved his work or had the pleasure of meeting him," she wrote. "James Van Der Beek was one in a billion and he will be forever missed."
Kerr Smith, another Dawson’s Creek castmate, expressed his deep sadness: "I’m so grateful for being able to call James a brother. I’ll miss him deeply."
Chad Michael Murray, who also starred on the hit show, wrote: "James was a giant. His words, art and humanity inspired all of us — he inspired us to be better in all ways."
Sarah Michelle Gellar, known for her role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared her sorrow: "I’m so sad for your beautiful family. While James’ legacy will always live on, this is a huge loss to not just your family but the world. F**k Cancer."