James Van Der Beek, a 1990s teen heartthrob famous for playing Dawson Leery in the hit series Dawson’s Creek, died peacefully at age 48 amid mourning from family and fellow actors after battling stage 3 colon cancer. He used his final days to raise awareness about cancer screening to help others.
The family of James Van Der Beek, the well-known American actor, released a statement on social media saying he passed away peacefully on the morning of 11 Feb local time, describing that "James faced the end of his life with courage, faith, and grace."
James was diagnosed with colon cancer in the latter half of 2023 but only publicly disclosed his illness in November 2024. He explained that it began with noticing irregular bowel movements, prompting him to stop drinking coffee to observe symptoms before deciding to get medical tests, which revealed stage 3 cancer that had spread to his lymph nodes.
James Van Der Beek was one of the most recognizable TV actors from the late 1990s to early 2000s. He rose to fame as Dawson Leery in the popular teen drama Dawson's Creek (1998-2003). He also starred in the coming-of-age film Varsity Blues (1999). Despite undergoing treatment, James continued working, recently guest-starring in the Prime Video comedy series Overcompensating and appearing via video call at a Dawson's Creek charity reunion in September to raise funds for the cancer charity F Cancer.
During his illness, James shared that his "lowest point" was feeling like he was losing his identity as a father, husband, and provider. However, he learned he still had worth. He also passionately campaigned for people to get colon cancer screenings, saying, "If I can help someone avoid going through this, that would be the greatest gift."
Following the sad news, many entertainment industry friends posted heartfelt tributes. Busy Philipps, a Dawson's Creek co-star, shared memories saying, "My heart is shattered," and helped raise funds for James’s family. Sarah Michelle Gellar called it a great loss for the world, noting James's legacy will endure. Jennifer Garner and Olivia Munn sent support to his wife Kimberly and their six children.
Sony Pictures and the official Dawson's Creek accounts paid tribute, stating, "His portrayal of Dawson Leery helped define a television era and remains etched in viewers' hearts to this day."
James Van Der Beek once said in a 2020 interview that as a child he was very shy and never dreamed of becoming an actor, aspiring instead to be an athlete. Nevertheless, he became an entertainment icon who brought joy to fans worldwide for many years.
/sourceBBC