James Van Der Beek, the actor who became a household name for his portrayal of Dawson Leery on Dawson's Creek, passed away at 48 after a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
His wife, Kimberly, confirmed his death on Instagram, sharing a heartfelt tribute: "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."
The actor’s death follows a year-long struggle with cancer, which he first disclosed in November 2024. He shared that he was focusing on his health and family during this challenging time. Van Der Beek's diagnosis was confirmed after a routine colonoscopy in August 2023.
Reflecting on the experience, he recalled, "It was just a change in bowel habits... I thought, I probably need to change my diet a little bit." However, his symptoms persisted, leading him to seek medical attention. After the procedure, his gastroenterologist delivered the life-altering news: “It is cancer.”
Van Der Beek had always been active and health-conscious, so the diagnosis was a shock. "I'm very healthy," he said at the time. "I was in amazing cardiovascular shape... I tried to eat healthy as much as I could, as far as I knew at the time." Despite the difficult news, he remained hopeful and shared that he felt optimistic about his treatment and recovery, supported by his family. "There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good," he added during a November interview.
Reflecting on his cancer journey, Van Der Beek was deeply moved by the support he received from friends and family. He admitted that asking for help was difficult, but the outpouring of love he received was a humbling experience. "It was amazing," he said through tears. "I’m never the person who asked for any help — ever. It’s not in my DNA. And I thought that was a fine way to be until cancer."
His family, especially his wife Kimberly and their six children—Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, Joshua, and Jeremiah—were by his side throughout his battle. Van Der Beek's commitment to his family was evident, and he often spoke about the joy his children brought him. In 2024, he reflected on the humbling experience of fatherhood, saying, "I just feel so lucky as they reveal to us who they are, stage by stage, bit by bit."
A final public appearance in December 2024, an interview with Today’s Craig Melvin, saw Van Der Beek sharing that he felt "much, much better" than a few months prior. While unable to attend the Dawson's Creek reunion in September due to illness, he appeared via video, expressing gratitude to fans for their ongoing support and love. "I’m just so grateful to the fans for doing that," he said, praising his family for attending in his place.
Van Der Beek's career spanned both television and film, with notable roles in Varsity Blues, Scary Movie, and How I Met Your Mother. His role in Dawson's Creek is perhaps his most enduring, with the show leaving a lasting legacy in the world of teen dramas. He will be remembered not only for his acting but also for his resilience and the love he shared with his family and fans.