James David Van Der Beek, the actor who became one of the most recognizable faces of 1990s television as the dreamy, introspective teenage lead on the hit drama Dawson’s Creek. Has died at the age of 48 following a prolonged and courageous battle with colorectal cancer. His passing was announced by his family on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, leaving fans and colleagues around the world mourning the loss of a deeply cherished entertainer and devoted family man. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” his wife, Kimberly…
James David Van Der Beek, the actor who became one of the most recognizable faces of 1990s television as the dreamy, introspective teenage lead on the hit drama Dawson’s Creek.

Has died at the age of 48 following a prolonged and courageous battle with colorectal cancer. His passing was announced by his family on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, leaving fans and colleagues around the world mourning the loss of a deeply cherished entertainer and devoted family man.

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, wrote on Instagram. “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.”

His death has drawn an outpouring of tributes and reflection on his life and legacy — a life that combined early stardom, a long and varied career in film and television, and an open, heartfelt engagement with fans as he faced serious illness.

A Star Is Born: From Connecticut to Dawson’s Creek
James Van Der Beek was born on March 8, 1977, in Cheshire, Connecticut. Long before he became a household name, he was a young actor with dreams of the stage and screen.An early sports injury shifted his focus from athletics to acting, and he soon found success in community theater before heading to New York to pursue his craft.

His big break came in 1998, when, at just 20 years old, he was cast as Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, a coming-of-age drama that premiered on The WB and would go on to become one of the defining teen shows of its era.

The series — known for its articulate dialogue, emotional depth, and exploration of adolescent identity — also helped launch the careers of stars including Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, and Joshua Jackson.

Dawson’s Creek captured the imagination of a generation, making Van Der Beek’s portrayal of the introspective, film-loving Dawson a cultural touchstone for young viewers navigating their own paths through adolescence and early adulthood.

Alongside his television work, Van Der Beek branched into film roles that broadened his appeal. He appeared in the 1999 sports drama Varsity Blues, playing the high school quarterback with a strong moral core, and throughout the early 2000s worked in movies such as The Rules of Attraction and comedy parodies like Scary Movie.

A Career Beyond One Role
Though forever linked with Dawson Leery, Van Der Beek built a career that ranged beyond the teen drama that made him famous.He demonstrated versatility in television and film, appearing in procedural shows like CSI: Cyber, and embracing comedic roles that often poked fun at his public image.

Fans also grew to appreciate his willingness to subvert expectations, such as in the sitcom Don’t Trust the B- in Apartment 23 and playful cameos in music videos and online sketches.

Over the years, he earned a reputation not just as a talented actor, but as someone who could laugh with — and sometimes at — his own iconic status.

Despite his success, Van Der Beek was known off-screen for his humility, warmth, and genuine appreciation for fans.

He often spoke about the emotional connection he felt with audiences who grew up watching Dawson’s Creek and who continued to champion his work throughout his life.

Diagnosis and Public Battle with Cancer
In August 2023, Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, a serious and advanced form of the disease.At the time, he was 46 years old. Initially, he kept his diagnosis private while undergoing treatment, but in November 2024 he publicly shared his condition in an effort to raise awareness about colorectal cancer — particularly its increasing incidence among younger adults.

In an interview shared with health outlets before his death, he described how routine symptoms — such as changes in bowel habits — had seemed insignificant at first and were initially attributed to benign causes like diet or caffeine. The diagnosis came as a shock for a man who had considered himself healthy and active.

Over the next two years, Van Der Beek documented parts of his journey with honesty and courage, highlighting both the physical and emotional challenges of living with cancer.

He spoke about setbacks and resilience, and also shared moments of gratitude, especially for the support of his family and fans.

A Family Man Above All
Central to James Van Der Beek’s life was his role as husband and father. He and his wife Kimberly raised six children: Olivia (15), Joshua (13), Annabel (12), Emilia (9½), Gwendolyn (7), and Jeremiah (4).

Throughout his illness, Van Der Beek frequently spoke about how much his family meant to him and how they were his greatest source of strength.He often shared insights into the joys and challenges of fatherhood, expressing pride in how close and supportive his children were of each other — especially under extraordinary circumstances.

His passing has deeply impacted not only fans and colleagues, but also the communities where he lived and worked.

Tributes from castmates — including emotional messages from those who starred with him on Dawson’s Creek — have highlighted Van Der Beek’s generous spirit and the genuine friendships he nurtured throughout his career.

Financial Strain and Community Support
In addition to the emotional and physical toll of cancer, the prolonged treatments and medical expenses placed significant financial strain on the Van Der Beek family.

In response, friends and supporters launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover living costs, education expenses for the children, and other essential needs as Kimberly and the family navigated life after James’s passing.

The fundraiser quickly gained traction, with donations surpassing initial goals within a short time. Reports indicate that over $1 million was raised in less than 24 hours — a testament to the widespread affection for the actor and the desire of fans and supporters to help his loved ones in a time of need.

In his final years, James had also taken proactive steps to support both his treatment and broader cancer causes. In late 2025, he auctioned off personal memorabilia — including items from his acting career — with proceeds directed toward medical costs and assisting other families affected by cancer.

Impact and Legacy
Van Der Beek’s sudden passing at 48 has reminded many of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of early cancer detection.

Medical professionals have noted that his story echoes a troubling trend of increasing colorectal cancer rates among younger adults, leading to renewed conversation about screening guidelines and public awareness.

For fans of Dawson’s Creek, his work remains a defining part of television history. The show’s honest approach to teenage life and relationships resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, and Van Der Beek’s performance as Dawson Leery helped anchor the series with emotional sincerity and nuance.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Van Der Beek’s openness about his health struggles, his advocacy for cancer awareness, and his devotion to family have become central parts of his enduring legacy.

Remembering James Van Der Beek
As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, James Van Der Beek is remembered not only as an actor who shaped a generation’s understanding of teen life, but also as a person of profound warmth, humor, and compassion.

Fans, colleagues, and friends have shared memories of his kindness, his willingness to connect, and his gratitude for the communities that supported him throughout his life and illness.

From the early days on Dawson’s Creek to his thoughtful reflections in later years, James’s journey touched countless lives and will continue to resonate with those who admired him.

In the face of difficult illness, he lived with passion, vulnerability, and grace — qualities that mirrored the humanity he brought to so many roles.

Though he is no longer with us, his impact lives on through his work, his family, and the many people who found comfort and connection in his story.

Rest in peace, James Van Der Beek (March 8, 1977 – February 11, 2026).