James Van der Beek has passed away at the age of 48 amid his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. A statement from his official IG handle disclosed the saddening news on Wednesday, February 11, stating that the actor, who rose to stardom during the late-90s and early 2000s, died peacefully. The statement read:
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.
Stage 3 colorectal cancer is an advanced cancer that spreads from the tumor through the colon or rectal wall into nearby lymph nodes. And despite the diagnosis, the actor clung to his optimism throughout his battle with it.
James Van Der Beek Was Diagnosed With Cancer in 2024
Most notable for starring in Dawson’s Creek, the actor opened up about his diagnosis in 2024, stressing he was taking steps to resolve it along with the support of his family. The actor further expressed that he was prioritizing spending time with his family, including his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six children, adding that he was in a good place.
Credit: Today/YT
Amid his diagnosis, last year, the actor unveiled that he was auctioning off memorabilia from his showbiz run to fund the treatment.
I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family. There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.
Stage 3 colorectal cancer makes up about one-third of all CRC cases, and even though it’s treatable, the actor’s untimely passing remains a profound loss.
Remembering James Van Der Beek and His Dawson’s Creek Legacy
Dawson’s Creek was a cornerstone for teen dramas in the late 90s, as it defined the trope of earnest teen filmmakers on television. Coupled with his other prominent works during that era, including The Rules of Attraction and Varsity Blues, the spotlight in these coming-of-age stories cemented him as a heartthrob in the 2000s.
A still from Dawson’s Creek | Credit: Sony Pictures Television
In 2025, the actor also joined the reunion for a live reading of the Dawson’s Creek pilot for the nonprofit F Cancer. Although he wasn’t able to attend the event in person following his declining health, Beek did express disappointment over his absence in a pre-recorded message (via Marca).
I have been looking forward to this night for months and months ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she was putting it together. I can’t believe I’m not there. I can’t believe I don’t get to see my cast mates, my beautiful cast in person
Without Dawson’s Creek, which was instrumental to laying the groundwork for more serious teen dramas, shows like Euphoria and Sex Education might’ve never taken off. While a tragedy, Beek’s works will continue to resonate with viewers for years to come.
Beek is survived by his wife and six children.
Dawson’s Creek is currently streaming on Netflix (USA).
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