James Van Der Beek, the American actor famed for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, has passed away at the age of 48.
Prompt News reports his family announced the news on Instagram Wednesday evening, stating: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.”
The statement further requested privacy as the family mourns their loss: “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.”
Van Der Beek, who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in late 2023, had only publicly shared his battle with the disease in November 2024.
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Born in 1977 in Cheshire, Connecticut, he was the eldest of three siblings. His acting journey began in middle school, and by age 15, he had told his mother he wanted to pursue professional auditions.
A father of six, Van Der Beek gained widespread recognition in the late 1990s and early 2000s for his performances in Dawson’s Creek and the sports drama Varsity Blues.
Following his death, his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek shared a GoFundMe link to support the family, revealing the financial challenges brought on by his illness. She wrote, “The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time.”
