‘Dawson’s Creek’ Actor James Van Der Beek Dead at 48

The actor, also known for movies including ‘Varsity Blues,’ had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and was open about his health battle in recent years.

James Van Der Beek in 'Dawson's Creek'. Photo: Sony Pictures Television.

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James Van Der Beek has died at the age of 48.
He was best known for his breakout role as Dawson Leery on the hit teen drama ‘Dawson’s Creek.’
In later years, he became known for his self-aware comedic roles and candid reflections on fame, family, and faith.

James Van Der Beek, the actor who rose to fame as earnest aspiring filmmaker Dawson Leery on the late-1990s teen drama ‘Dawson’s Creek,’ has died at the age of 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer.

Van Der Beek’s family put out a statement:

“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.”

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James Van Der Beek: Early Life and Career

(L to R) Kerr Smith, Katie Holmes, James Van Der Beek, Joshua Jackson and Michelle Williams in 'Dawson's Creek'. Photo: Sony Pictures Television.

Born March 8, 1977, in Cheshire, Connecticut, James David Van Der Beek discovered acting at a young age and pursued it with determination. After performing in regional theater and landing small television roles, he moved to New York to study and audition, eventually making his film debut in the 1995 drama ‘Angus.’

His big break came in 1998 when he was cast as Dawson Leery on The WB’s ‘Dawson’s Creek.’ The series, which ran for six seasons, became a cultural touchstone of its era, and Van Der Beek’s portrayal of the sensitive, Spielberg-obsessed teen made him a household name almost overnight.

James Van Der Beek: in Film and Television

(L to R) James Van Der Beek and Jon Voight in 'Varsity Blues.' Photo: Paramount Pictures.

While starring on ‘Dawson’s Creek,’ Van Der Beek successfully transitioned to the big screen, most notably in the football drama ‘Varsity Blues’ (1999), where his performance — and a now-iconic line reading — cemented his place in late-’90s pop culture.

He went on to appear in films including ‘The Rules of Attraction’ (2002), showcasing a darker edge.

On later television series, he demonstrated a willingness to poke fun at his teen idol image with a recurring role as an exaggerated version of himself on the ABC comedy ‘Don’t Trust the B---- in Apartment 23,’ earning praise for his comedic timing and self-awareness.

Van Der Beek later competed on ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ appeared in series such as ‘CSI: Cyber’ and ‘Pose,’ and continued to work steadily in both independent films and television projects.

James Van Der Beek: Offscreen

James Van Der Beek in 'Mrs. Miracle'. Photo: Hallmark Television.

Off camera, Van Der Beek was known as a devoted husband and father. He frequently shared glimpses of family life and spoke candidly about personal growth, spirituality, and the lessons he learned from both success and adversity.

After publicly revealing his colorectal cancer diagnosis, he used his platform to raise awareness and encourage others to prioritize their health, approaching the subject with honesty and vulnerability. Friends and colleagues often described him as gracious, introspective, and deeply committed to those he loved.