UPDATE: Renowned actor James Van Der Beek, best known for his role in the iconic teen drama Dawson’s Creek, has tragically passed away at the age of 48. The news was confirmed by his family early this morning on social media, stating he died peacefully after a battle with colon cancer.
Van Der Beek’s family shared a heartfelt message, saying, “
Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He faced his final days with courage, faith, and dignity.
” His illness was diagnosed in the latter half of 2023, but he only made the public aware of his condition in November 2024.
This loss is profound, as Van Der Beek was a prominent figure in television during the late ’90s and early 2000s. Alongside his role in Dawson’s Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003, he gained fame from the film Varsity Blues in 1999 and participated in the 28th season of Dancing with the Stars.
In a candid interview with Business Insider, he discussed his initial symptoms, including changes in bowel habits—common indicators of colorectal cancer. Following medical evaluation, he was diagnosed with stage three cancer, meaning the disease had spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Van Der Beek reflected on the emotional toll of his diagnosis, stating, “
The lowest moment during treatment was the feeling that I was losing key parts of my identity. Father, husband, provider – all of that was stripped away or at least put on hold. I had to remind myself that I was still worthy of love.
”
Even amid his health struggles, Van Der Beek remained committed to raising awareness about the importance of preventive screenings. He expressed his desire to shield others from similar experiences, stating, “
If I can spare someone from going through this, that’s real magic.
” He continued to work, appearing as a guest on Amazon Prime Video’s series Overcompensating earlier this year and surprising fans with a virtual appearance at a charity event marking the anniversary of Dawson’s Creek in September 2025.
This heartbreaking news resonates deeply with fans and colleagues alike. As tributes pour in, the legacy of James Van Der Beek as both an actor and a person who courageously faced his battle with cancer will undoubtedly be honored and remembered.
As the entertainment community mourns this loss, many are encouraged to reflect on the importance of health awareness and the impact of early detection. Stay tuned for further updates on tributes and remembrances for this beloved star.
