• Actor James Van Der Beek passed away at age 48 after battling colorectal cancer.
• His diagnosis was revealed in November 2024 following a routine colonoscopy.
• Van Der Beek was best known for his role as Dawson Leery in the hit series Dawson's Creek.
• He leaves behind a legacy as a beloved actor and a family of six children.

James Van Der Beek, the actor celebrated for his portrayal of Dawson Leery in the iconic late 1990s teen drama Dawson's Creek, has died at the age of 48. His wife, Kimberly, shared the news on social media, stating, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace," and requested privacy as the family grieves CBS News, BBC, Reuters, and NPR.

Van Der Beek had publicly announced his diagnosis of stage 3 colorectal cancer in November 2024, which was discovered during a routine colonoscopy. Despite battling the disease, he continued to document his treatment journey on social media, sharing insights about living with cancer and raising awareness around screening CBS News, Reuters, and NPR.

Known for his breakout role as Dawson Leery, Van Der Beek starred alongside notable actors such as Michelle Williams and Katie Holmes, significantly influencing teen dramas of the era. His work also included films like Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction, showcasing his versatility as an actor BBC, Reuters, and NPR.

Van Der Beek's legacy includes a strong connection with fans cultivated over years, particularly through his relatable character on Dawson's Creek. He was unable to attend a reunion event in September 2025 due to his illness but contributed emotionally through a video message where he expressed gratitude towards his castmates and fans CBS News, Reuters, and NPR.