James Van Der Beek Dead At Age 48, Dawson Creek & ATWT’s Star Passes Away

Sad news in the entertainment world, as it’s been confirmed that actor James Van Der Beek has passed away.

The Dawson’s Creek star passed away on Wednesday, February 11, at the age of 48 after a three-year battle with colorectal cancer. More on this story below.

Statement On James Van Der Beek’s Passing

A statement was posted to Van Der Beek’s Instagram page. It noted, “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.”

It went on to say, “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.”

The actor was diagnosed with cancer in 2023. Throughout his battle, he had the support of his family, as well as his past Dawson’s colleagues, Joshua Jackson, Michelle Williams, and Katie Holmes. The three sent heartfelt messages to Van Der Beek when he was unable to attend the cast reunion in September 2025.

James Van Der Beek’s Legacy

While he was best known for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, which ran from 1998 to 2003, early on in his career, he did have a three-episode run on the soap opera, As the World Turns.

After Dawson’s Creek, he also appeared on shows like How I Met Your Mother, One Tree Hill, and Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23. In addition, his film credits included 1998’s Varsity Blues, 2001’s Texas Rangers, 2013’s Labor Day, and 2020’s Bad Hair – just to name a few.

James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, along with their six children, Olivia (aged 15), Joshua (aged 13), Annabel (aged 12), Emilia (aged 9), Gwendolyn (aged 7), and Jeremiah (aged 4).

On behalf of everyone here at CTS, we extend our condolences to James’ family, loved ones, former co-stars, and fans.

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