James Van Der Beek, ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Star, Dies at 48 After Battle With Cancer
James Van Der Beek, the actor who became a household name as the earnest Dawson Leery on the seminal teen drama Dawson’s Creek, has passed away. He was 48. His family announced that he died peacefully on Wednesday morning (Feb. 11) following a private struggle with cancer.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” the family shared in a poignant statement on Instagram. “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 November 2024, Van Der Beek revealed in a candid interview with People that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at age 46. The news was unexpected for the actor, who maintained a rigorous fitness routine and a healthy lifestyle. He admitted at the time that he had always associated the disease with older age or sedentary habits, noting he was in “amazing cardiovascular shape” when the symptoms first appeared.
The actor first noticed irregularities in his health in 2023. Though he initially suspected his diet was the cause, he underwent a colonoscopy out of caution, which led to the diagnosis. Despite the severity of the illness, Van Der Beek remained “cautiously optimistic” throughout his treatment, frequently telling the media he had “a lot to live for.”
He used his platform during his final year to advocate for early detection, urging others to listen to their bodies and seek medical screenings. By sharing his journey, he hoped to strip away the stigma of the disease and encourage proactive healthcare.
Beyond the marshes of Capeside, Van Der Beek enjoyed a prolific career in both film and television. He delivered memorable performances in Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction, and showcased his range with guest arcs on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, One Tree Hill, and Ugly Betty.
Pop culture enthusiasts also fondly remember his comedic turn in Kesha’s 2011 music video for “Blow.” The visual featured a stylized, high-stakes laser gun battle between the actor and the singer, complete with Van Der Beek’s signature charm and a surreal showdown involving unicorns.
James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwen, and Jeremiah.
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