James Van Der Beek, star of the drama “Dawson’s Creek,” has passed away at the age of 48. This news follows an announcement in November 2024 that the star had been diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer, though no official cause of death has been given. Along with starring as Dawson Leery for six seasons on the hit WB series, Van Der Beek was also known for his role as Mox in 1999’s “Varsity Blues,” and the 2015 series “CSI: Cyber.” He leaves behind his wife, Kimberly, and six children.
Born March 8, 1977, in Cheshire, Connecticut, Van Der Beek got his big break from “Dawson’s Creek,” though his first credited film appearance was in the 1995 drama “Angus.” After the series ended in May 2023, the actor appeared in several television shows and movies, including “Ugly Betty,” and “One Tree Hill.”
Known for being a teen heartthrob, Van Der Beek provided fans with insights into his diagnosis through Instagram, where he would share his experience. During this time, he would frequently reference his wife and children while giving them praise for supporting him. Speaking about his time on “Dawson’s Creek” with Vulture in 2013, Van Der Beek stated, “It’s tough to compete with something that was the cultural phenomenon that ‘Dawson’s Creek’ was. It ran for so long. That’s a lot of hours playing one character in front of people.”
Van Der Beek is survived by his wife and 6 children
The news of Van Der Beek’s passing was announced by his wife through an Instagram post, stating “Our beloved Hames David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.” For James, one of his last posts on Instagram was highlighting his daughter’s 12th birthday back in January, who also shares the day with his father.
The eldest of three children, Van Der Beek got his start with acting in the off-Broadway play, “Finding the Sun.” Along with “Dawson’s Creek” helping Van Der Beek launch into entertainment stardom, the series based in Massachusetts also helped propel the careers of Academy Award-nominated Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, and Joshua Jackson. In September 2025, Van Der Beek surprised guests at a “Dawson’s Creek” reunion charity event, appearing in a video after stating he would not make it due to illness. For those interested, “Dawson’s Creek” is currently streaming on Netflix and Hulu.
During his battle with cancer, his wife Kimberly began sharing a GoFundMe initiative due to the overwhelming costs of James’ treatment. While the campaign itself does not provide the specific amount donated, fans are continuing to donate after the announcement of this news, with numerous individuals donating $5,000 or more. The donations “will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives.”
