James Van Der Beek Dies at 48 After Courageous Cancer Battle

11 February 2026

James Van Der Beek. Credit : JC Olivera/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty

James Van Der Beek, the beloved actor who captured hearts as Dawson Leery and in a string of memorable film and television roles, has died at the age of 48 after a courageous battle with colorectal cancer. His wife Kimberly announced his passing on February 11, 2026, describing how he spent his final days with profound courage, faith and grace, embraced by the love of his family and the support of fans around the world. Van Der Beek’s death marks the end of a remarkable journey that saw him grow from a teen icon into a dedicated artist and devoted father of six, leaving behind a legacy that extended far beyond his on-screen performances.

Born in Cheshire, Connecticut in 1977, James David Van Der Beek rose to fame in the late 1990s with his breakout role as Dawson Leery on the hit teen drama Dawson’s Creek, a series that launched him into stardom and made him a cultural touchstone for a generation of viewers. The show’s blend of earnest coming-of-age storytelling and the emotional complexities of adolescence resonated deeply with audiences, and Van Der Beek’s portrayal of the introspective, cinematic-loving Dawson anchored the series with a sincerity and vulnerability that would define much of his early career. Over the years he transitioned into diverse roles across film and television, including appearances in Varsity Blues, The Rules of Attraction and a host of TV series such as CSI: Cyber.

Van Der Beek’s public battle with colorectal cancer began in earnest in August 2023, when he was diagnosed with stage 3 disease following medical evaluation. He chose to share his diagnosis in 2024, revealing his struggle amid treatment and reflection, and using his platform to increase awareness about the importance of early detection and health vigilance. In sharing his health journey, he hoped not only to be transparent about his own experience but also to inspire dialogue about a disease that is affecting more people at younger ages. These efforts underscored a desire to transform his personal challenge into a broader message of advocacy.

Throughout his illness, Van Der Beek continued to engage with fans and colleagues, attending events virtually and remaining present in the entertainment community even as his health waned. In November 2025, he and his wife even renewed their wedding vows in an intimate ceremony from his bed, surrounded by flowers, candles and music, a poignant testament to the depth of their partnership and the enduring bond they shared. This touching moment occurred just days before his death and highlighted the strength of his personal life even amid immense physical challenges.

Despite his professional success, Van Der Beek and his family faced financial difficulties due to the extensive costs associated with long-term cancer treatment, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and friends. A GoFundMe campaign launched by his wife quickly raised millions to help cover medical bills, living expenses and the needs of their six children, reflecting the deep affection and gratitude felt by the public for his contributions to entertainment and his openness through hardship. He had even sold cherished memorabilia from his career to help pay for treatment, demonstrating both the financial strain of prolonged care and his commitment to his family’s well-being.

The outpouring of tributes following his death from fellow actors, musicians and cultural figures further illustrated the impact he had on those who worked with him and admired his talent. Co-stars and friends such as Katie Holmes, whose character Joey Potter was Dawson’s enduring love interest, and singer Paula Cole, known for the Dawson’s Creek theme song, shared heartfelt remembrances, describing Van Der Beek as a wise, loving and gentle soul whose presence extended far beyond his iconic performances. Social media and public memorials buzzed with stories of his kindness, humor and generous spirit, revealing a man who was as beloved personally as he was professionally.

Colorectal cancer, the disease that ultimately claimed Van Der Beek’s life, has become an increasingly urgent public health issue, especially as rates among younger adults have risen in recent decades. Health authorities highlight the importance of early screening and awareness of symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort and unexplained fatigue, noting that regular colonoscopy screenings can detect precancerous growths before they develop into more serious conditions. Van Der Beek’s openness about his diagnosis helped bring this conversation to the forefront for many who follow his legacy, drawing attention to the need for vigilance and proactive healthcare.

While his death leaves a void for fans and colleagues alike, Van Der Beek’s body of work endures as a testament to his versatility and emotional depth as an actor. From the earnest drama of Dawson’s Creek that captured the hearts of youth audiences worldwide to his varied roles across genres that demonstrated his range, he built a career that reflected both his talent and his dedication to storytelling. Beyond acting, his public voice and advocacy around health and family have left an imprint that many will continue to honor and remember.

James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife Kimberly and their six children, Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, Joshua and Jeremiah, who now carry forward his legacy of love, resilience and grace. As tributes continue to pour in and fans revisit the characters and performances that made him a household name, his influence on pop culture and the lives he touched remains enduring and profound.