James Van Der Beek, the actor known for his role in the popular 1990s series “Dawson’s Creek,” passed away at the age of 48 following a battle with cancer, as confirmed by his wife on social media. In an Instagram post, his wife Kimberly announced the peaceful passing of James David Van Der Beek and highlighted his courage, faith, and grace during his final days.
Following the news of his passing, fans and colleagues took to social media to honor his memory and express their condolences. Actress Sarah Michelle Gellar paid tribute to Van Der Beek, acknowledging his lasting impact on both his family and the wider community.
In response to the tragic news, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated to raise financial support for Van Der Beek’s widow and their six children. The fundraiser quickly garnered over $200,000 within an hour of its launch, toward the $500,000 goal.
Van Der Beek publicly shared his battle with colorectal cancer in 2024, revealing his diagnosis following a routine medical examination the previous year. Throughout his journey, he documented his experiences with cancer treatment and health management on social media until his passing.
Hailing from Connecticut, Van Der Beek rose to fame with his breakthrough role as Dawson Leery in “Dawson’s Creek” during the 1990s, starring alongside Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson, and Katie Holmes. The series, which explored the complexities of teenage life and relationships, resonated with audiences for its candid portrayal of adolescent experiences.
In addition to his iconic role in “Dawson’s Creek,” Van Der Beek amassed a diverse acting portfolio, appearing in over 60 films and television productions. Notable performances include his portrayal of quarterback Mox in “Varsity Blues” (1999) and the character of drug dealer Sean Bateman in “The Rules of Attraction” (2002).