Beloved Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek has sadly passed away at the tender age of forty-eight. He had been battling Stage 3 colorectal cancer since 2023. Now, he is at peace. Keep reading for all of the extremely tragically sad details.
James Van Der Beek Dead At 48
Hearts are broken as news has come out that Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek has passed away. He was just forty-eight years old at the time of his death. The beloved actor had been battling colorectal cancer for nearly three years and had been working hard to raise money during his fight. It had proven costly, and that was a struggle on its own. Along with that, his former Dawson’s Creek co-stars tried to help him by doing a benefit. They did a reading of the pilot in which James was supposed to participate. At the last minute, he had to back out, but was replaced by Lin-Manuel Miranda.
His wife and daughters did take the stage for a sing-along when it came to the song’s iconic theme. However, James did come out and try to show that he was doing his best despite his struggles. Sadly, he lost his fight on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026, as his wife, Kimberly, posted on social media:
- 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.
She also shared a sweet and beautiful snap of James Van Der Beek looking happy and healthy, but they were shocked to learn this news.
Many followers immediately came to the comment section to share their sentiments regarding what happened to the Cheshire, Connecticut native. Moreover, they could not believe that the icon had lost his battle and were brokenhearted.
In Disbelief
James Van Der Beek was an icon and staple to many who watched Dawson’s Creek and the hit film, Varsity Blues. After learning he had cancer, fans were devastated. Now, to see that he had died at forty-eight was a blow to the heart. Fans and followers flocked to the statement to share their devastation:
- I am so sorry to see this. I am sending all the love and prayers I can find your way.
- I’ve been thinking of him and his family lots – I’m so sorry for their loss. He was such a loving husband and father – we could all see it ❤️
- My heart dropped into my stomach reading this. As a women who lost her 45 year old husband to cancer, I’m sick for his wife and children.
- He was so loved by so many. Brought so much joy to so many hearts, all over the world. I’m so sorry for your loss 😞❤️
James Van Der Beek leaves behind his wife and six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah. May he rest in paradise, and may his memory be a blessing.
Amanda has been a professional freelance writer for over a decade, holding both a BA and an MA. Her passions include animals, iced coffee, gnomes, summer, music, and ‘Vanderpump Rules’.
