Hollywood Mourns as ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Star James Van Der Beek Dies at 48 After Cancer Battle
James Van Der Beek, who played Dawson Leary on “Dawson’s Creek,” died at 48 from cancer. On Wednesday, Feb. 11, his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed the news on Instagram.
Kimberly said that her husband died peacefully with courage, trust, and grace. In mourning, she asked for solitude, remembering him as a famous actor, beloved spouse, parent, son, brother, and friend. Her statement showed his loved ones’ great sadness.
After the announcement, actors and other personalities paid respect to his achievements and character off-screen. Actress Nikki Reed said Van Der Beek’s knowledge and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone. She said he was adored and mourned for his family commitment and ability to express emotion via words.
Rumer Willis said she was lucky to have known him. She noted his regard and concern for his family as a spouse and father. According to actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler, his friends were lucky to have known him.
Chad Michael Murray offered his condolences and termed Van Der Beek an inspiration whose creativity and humanity inspired others. Sarah Michelle Gellar also expressed her sadness and called his death a global tragedy.
In August 2023, Van Der Beek was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. He revealed his condition in November 2024, saying he had been secretly treating it with family support. He said he was treating the condition and focused.
As medical bills mounted in November 2025, Van Der Beek auctioned “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues” memorabilia. The goal was to cover his cancer treatment. Longtime followers who followed his career since the late 1990s noticed.
His 2010 wife Kimberly and their six children—Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, Joshua, and Jeremiah—survive Van Der Beek. His final Instagram post was a birthday message to his daughter Annabel and father, expressing appreciation and love. He wrote that they made the world a better place and that he was grateful for them.
Kimberly started a GoFundMe for the family after his death. As the family rebuilds, the contributions will support critical living expenses, household bills, and children’s schooling, according to the campaign description. Every donation, no matter how small, would give hope and stability during a difficult time.
In his decades-long career, James Van Der Beek was best known for “Dawson’s Creek,” which made him famous. Many colleagues remembered him for his modesty, thoughtfulness, and family devotion beyond his acting.
His death at 48 is a major loss for 1990s TV lovers and the entertainment industry. As tributes flow in, his art, words, and family immortalize him.
Sources:
Instagram statement by Kimberly Van Der Beek (Feb. 11)
Public tributes from verified celebrity social media accounts
People magazine interview (November 2024)
GoFundMe campaign description created by Kimberly Van Der Beek
