‘Dawson’s Creek’ star James Van Der Beek is dead

James Van Der Beek, the American actor best known for his role as Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, has died at the age of 48.

His family announced his passing on Wednesday evening via Instagram, saying he “passed peacefully this morning” and describing him as a “loving husband, father, son, brother and friend.”

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek 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,” the statement read.

Van Der Beek, who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in late 2023, only made his condition public in November 2024. Born in 1977 in Cheshire, Connecticut, he was the eldest of three children and began acting in middle school, deciding at 15 to pursue professional auditions.

He rose to international fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s with Dawson’s Creek and the football drama Varsity Blues, becoming a household name and beloved figure in pop culture. He was a father of six.

Following his death, his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek shared a GoFundMe link, revealing that the family had faced significant financial strain due to his prolonged illness.

“The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time,” she wrote