BREAKING: James Van Der Beek, beloved star of the iconic series Dawson’s Creek, has tragically passed away at the age of 48, following a courageous battle with bowel cancer. His family announced his death on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, stating he faced his final days “with courage, faith, and grace.”
This devastating news has sent shockwaves throughout the entertainment community. Co-star Busy Philipps, who shared memorable moments with Van Der Beek, expressed her heartbreak on Instagram, saying, “My heart is deeply hurting for all of us today.” She emphasized the profound impact Van Der Beek had on everyone who knew him, especially his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children.
The Dawson’s Creek reunion event last September aimed to support Van Der Beek’s cancer treatment, drawing attendance from former co-stars including Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, and Joshua Jackson. Van Der Beek was unable to attend due to illness, with Lin-Manuel Miranda representing him at the event. Miranda shared a heartfelt moment with Van Der Beek’s family, stating that his “whole heart” is with them during this difficult time.
In a poignant family statement, Kimberly revealed, “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning.” She urged for privacy as they navigate their grief, highlighting the family’s need for support in the wake of this loss.
Fellow cast member Kerr Smith shared his sorrow online, recalling Van Der Beek as a brother and expressing gratitude for their friendship. The emotional tributes continued with Chad Michael Murray, who described Van Der Beek as a “giant,” and actress Mary Margaret Humes, who referred to him as a “gracious warrior.”
The impact of this loss is felt far and wide. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the Van Der Beek family, which has already raised over $800,000. The page states, “James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him.” It notes the family is facing an uncertain future due to medical expenses incurred during his battle with cancer.
Van Der Beek was not only known for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003, but also starred in films like Varsity Blues and Jay And Silent Bob Strike Back. He later played a fictionalized version of himself in the series Don’t Trust The B—- In Apartment 23 and took on roles in CSI: Cyber and Pose.
Celebrities from across the industry have rallied to honor Van Der Beek’s legacy, with heartfelt messages flooding social media. Actress Alyssa Milano praised him as a “unicorn of a man,” while Jennifer Garner called his passing “heartbreaking.”
As the entertainment world mourns this tremendous loss, the legacy of James Van Der Beek will undoubtedly continue to resonate through the hearts of fans and loved ones. The community is urged to support the Van Der Beek family during this challenging time, as they navigate the aftermath of this profound loss.
Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops.
