Actor James Van Der Beek, known for his role in the American TV series 'Dawson's Creek,' sadly passed away on February 11. He was 48. The actor passed away more than a year after announcing his diagnosis of colorectal cancer in November 2024. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children.
In a statement posted on his Instagram page, his family said, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. 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."
James Van Der Beek's film career
He was best known for playing Dawson, the lead character in the 1998-2003 teen drama about a group of friends living in a small town in Massachusetts.
Although he had roles in the films 'Varsity Blues' and 'The Rules of Attraction', Van Der Beek never really made a name for himself in movies as he struggled to break free from the legacy of 'Dawson's Creek'. However, the actor stated he was happy with his career path.
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He also played a fictional version of himself in the cult TV show Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 and performed in the 28th season of Dancing with the Stars. Van Der Beek kept working despite his diagnosis.
Earlier this year, he guest-starred in the Prime Video college comedy Overcompensating. Van Der Beek made a surprise virtual appearance at a Dawson's Creek reunion charity event on September 22, after having to withdraw from the live event due to two stomach viruses, as reported by BBC.
His cancer battle
Van Der Beek, who was married and had six children, announced his cancer diagnosis in 2024.
He made a surprise video appearance in September at a 'Dawson's Creek' reunion charity event in New York City after previously withdrawing due to illness. He was projected onstage at the Richard Rodgers Theatre during a live reading of the show’s pilot episode to support F Cancer and him. Lin-Manuel Miranda filled in for him on stage.
"Thank you to every single person here,” Van Der Beek said.
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"I have colorectal cancer," James said in a statement to People magazine, as quoted by The Times of India. He went on to add, "I've been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family. There's reason for optimism, and I'm feeling good."
Later in an Instagram post, the actor said, "... I'd planned on talking about it at length with People magazine at some point soon… to raise awareness and tell my story on my own terms. But that plan had to be altered early this morning when I was informed that a tabloid was going to run with the news. I've been dealing with this privately until now, getting treatment and dialing in my overall health with greater focus than ever before. I'm in a good place and feeling strong. It's been quite the initiation, and I'll tell you more when I'm ready."
