‘Dawson’s Creek’ actor James Van Der Beek dies at 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer, his family announced on social media
NEW YORK: Actor James Van Der Beek, best known for his role as the lead in the hit teen drama “Dawson’s Creek,” has died at the age of 48.
His family announced his passing on his official Instagram page, stating he died peacefully after a battle with colorectal cancer.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” the post read. It described him as meeting his final days “with courage, faith, and grace.”
Van Der Beek publicly announced his cancer diagnosis in 2024. He was married and is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children.
He rose to fame playing Dawson Leery, the central character in “Dawson’s Creek,” which aired from 1998 to 2003.
The series followed a group of friends in a small Massachusetts town and became a defining show for a generation.
While he appeared in films like “Varsity Blues” and “The Rules of Attraction,” Van Der Beek’s career remained closely tied to his television breakthrough.
He once reflected on this legacy in a 2011 interview with Page Six.
“Overall, I’ve worn my past with pride rather than seeing it as something to get rid of,” he said at the time.
The announcement on Instagram featured a photo of Van Der Beek wearing a white top and cardigan. The post was also shared by his wife.
“There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come,” the family’s statement added.
They requested “peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
