Remembering James Van Der Beek's Versatile Acting Career

From 'Dawson's Creek' to 'Pose,' the actor subverted his teen idol image through a range of memorable roles.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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James Van Der Beek, who passed away at age 48 in 2026, was best known for his breakout role as the title character on the hit teen drama 'Dawson's Creek.' But the actor also found ways to subvert his all-American persona through a variety of memorable performances over the years, from the dark college drama 'The Rules of Attraction' to the self-parody of 'Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23.'

Why it matters

Van Der Beek's career trajectory highlights how some actors are able to evolve beyond their most famous roles, using humor and versatility to expand their range and challenge audience perceptions. His willingness to embrace and even mock his 'Dawson's Creek' fame showed a savvy self-awareness that allowed him to maintain a successful career long after his breakout role.

The details

After finding fame as the sensitive, lovelorn teen Dawson Leery on 'Dawson's Creek,' Van Der Beek went on to appear in a range of films and TV shows that allowed him to subvert his wholesome image. In the 1999 football drama 'Varsity Blues,' he played a smart, noble student, while in 2002's 'The Rules of Attraction,' he took on the intense and snarling role of Sean Bateman. Van Der Beek later poked fun at his own persona in the sitcom 'Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23,' playing a vain but mischievous version of himself.

  • Van Der Beek announced his colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024.
  • He appeared on 'The Masked Singer' in 2025 and discussed his 'tough year'.
  • Van Der Beek filmed a role in the 'Legally Blonde' prequel series 'Elle,' set to premiere in the summer of 2026.

The players

James Van Der Beek

An American actor best known for his breakout role as Dawson Leery on the teen drama 'Dawson's Creek,' who later subverted his wholesome image through a range of diverse performances.

Dawson Leery

The sensitive, lovelorn title character that Van Der Beek played on the hit TV series 'Dawson's Creek.'

Roger Avary

The director of the 2002 film 'The Rules of Attraction,' who initially doubted Van Der Beek's ability to play the intense and snarling Sean Bateman but was quickly convinced by the actor's range.

Krysten Ritter

Van Der Beek's co-star in the sitcom 'Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23,' where he played a vain but mischievous version of himself.

Diplo

The DJ and music producer that Van Der Beek portrayed in the 2017 Viceland comedy series 'What Would Diplo Do?'

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What they’re saying

“I realized that beneath the innocence and clean-cut charisma, James has this capacity for iciness and a welling intensity.”

— Roger Avary, Director of 'The Rules of Attraction' (The New York Times)

“Being around him was the biggest thing. An impression is more about energy than anything else.”

— James Van Der Beek (The New York Times)

What’s next

Van Der Beek's final role in the 'Legally Blonde' prequel series 'Elle' is set to premiere this summer, providing one last opportunity for fans to see the versatile actor in action.

The takeaway

James Van Der Beek's career serves as a testament to the power of versatility and self-awareness in Hollywood. By embracing and subverting his teen idol image, he was able to maintain a successful acting career long after his breakout role, inspiring others to challenge audience perceptions and expand the range of their talents.