James Van Der Beek, 'Dawson's Creek' Star, Dies at 48

The actor, known for his roles in Dawson's Creek and Varsity Blues, passed away after a battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for starring in the teen TV drama Dawson's Creek and films including Varsity Blues, has died at the age of 48. Van Der Beek revealed in November 2024 that he had been diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer and had been battling the disease. He passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026.

Why it matters

Van Der Beek's death marks the end of an era for fans of Dawson's Creek, the hit 1990s teen drama that launched him to stardom. The actor had remained active in the entertainment industry in the years since, appearing in numerous TV shows and films, but his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson's Creek was his most iconic. His passing at a relatively young age is sure to be mourned by his many fans and former co-stars.

The details

Van Der Beek revealed his cancer diagnosis in a November 2024 Instagram post, stating that despite the diagnosis he was 'in a good place and feeling strong.' He later shared with People magazine that he was battling Stage 3 colorectal cancer, which he had been diagnosed with after a colonoscopy. In December 2024, Van Der Beek appeared on Good Morning America to discuss his mindset and emotional state during his ongoing battle with the disease.

  • Van Der Beek revealed his cancer diagnosis in a November 2024 Instagram post.
  • In December 2024, Van Der Beek joined Good Morning America to discuss his battle with cancer.
  • Van Der Beek passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026.

The players

James Van Der Beek

An American actor best known for his starring role in the teen TV drama Dawson's Creek, as well as his performances in films like Varsity Blues.

Kimberly Van Der Beek

Van Der Beek's wife, a film producer.

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What they’re saying

“And thus began the full-time job of having cancer, signing up for all the various medical portals and getting on the phone with insurance and creating appointments. … I was not prepared for just how much of a full-time job that it really is.”

— James Van Der Beek (Good Morning America)

“I'm going to make changes that I never would have made otherwise, that I'm going to look back on in 30 years and say, 'Thank gGod this happened.' So, what can I do right now in order to make that the case? And that's how it was, about 90 percent of the time. But 10 percent of the time, I was a sobbing, terrified mess, which I feel like is a pretty good percentage.”

— James Van Der Beek (Good Morning America)

The takeaway

James Van Der Beek's passing marks the end of an era for fans of the iconic '90s teen drama Dawson's Creek, which launched him to stardom. Despite his success, Van Der Beek remained humble and open about his struggles with fame and his recent battle with cancer, inspiring many with his courage and resilience.