James Van Der Beek, the actor whose portrayal of Dawson Leery in the ’90s teen drama Dawson’s Creek made him a household name, has died at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed the news on social media, writing that he “passed peacefully this morning” and that he “met his final days with courage, faith and grace.”
Van Der Beek first rose to fame in 1998 when Dawson’s Creek premiered. The show quickly became a defining series for its generation, following a tight-knit group of friends coming of age in a small Massachusetts coastal town. Van Der Beek’s earnest, introspective performance as Dawson , an aspiring filmmaker navigating life, love and identity, struck a chord with audiences and helped make the show a cultural milestone that continues to be rediscovered on streaming platforms.
Beyond Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek built a varied career in television and films. He appeared in the cult favourite Varsity Blues, guest-starred on shows like How I Met Your Mother and CSI: Cyber and showcased his comedic side in projects like Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23. In later years, he also appeared on reality shows and continued exploring different creative opportunities.
In 2023, Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer and he publicly shared his journey nearly a year later, hoping to raise awareness about early detection and treatment. Despite his illness, he continued to engage with fans and supporters, even making a virtual appearance at a Dawson’s Creek charity reunion when his health prevented him from attending in person. His openness about his diagnosis and the changes it brought to his life earned admiration from many.
He is survived by his wife Kimberly and their six children. The outpouring of tributes from fans and former co-stars reflects the deep impact he had, not just as an actor, but as a presence that defined much of a generation’s television experience.
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