James Van Der Beek, the actor who became a household name as Dawson Leary on the hit teen drama “Dawson’s Creek,” has died at the age of 48 after battling colorectal cancer.
James Van Der Beek Dies at 48
His family confirmed the news Wednesday in a heartfelt statement posted to Instagram. “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.”
The television star publicly revealed in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer the previous year. In the months that followed, he spoke candidly about his health journey, drawing attention to colorectal cancer awareness and the importance of early screening—an issue that continues to be a critical focus in public health and cancer treatment discussions.
Van Der Beek’s rise to fame began in the late 1990s when he was cast as the introspective lead in “Dawson’s Creek,” a series that became a defining cultural touchstone for a generation. Premiering in 1997, the show propelled him into stardom and cemented his place in television history.
Long before the WB drama made him a breakout star, Van Der Beek had been building his craft on stage. Born in Connecticut, he performed in Off-Broadway productions while still in high school and appeared in independent films before landing his breakthrough television role.
In the decades that followed, he maintained a steady presence across network television, streaming platforms, and reality competition shows. He held recurring roles in series including “CSI: Cyber” and “Pose,” and lent his voice to 69 episodes of the animated children’s show “Vampirina.”
Audiences also saw a different side of him when he competed on the 28th season of “Dancing With the Stars.” In 2025, he appeared as Griffin on “The Masked Singer,” showcasing his continued versatility in entertainment.
His most recent on-screen appearance came in a two-episode guest role on “Overcompensating,” marking one of his final television performances.
Beyond his career, Van Der Beek experienced both personal challenges and milestones. He divorced actress Heather McComb in 2010. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Brook, and their six children.
As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues, Van Der Beek is being remembered not only for his iconic television role but also for his resilience during his health struggle. His passing has reignited conversations around colorectal cancer screening, family support systems, and the pressures of life in the public eye.
James Van’s Cause Of Death
As mentioned earlier, the star passed away after battling colorectal cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How did James Van Der Beek die?
James Van Der Beek passed away at the age of 48 after battling colorectal cancer. His family confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement on Instagram.
When was James Van Der Beek diagnosed with cancer?
Van Der Beek was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023 and publicly shared his diagnosis in 2024.
What role made James Van Der Beek famous?
He rose to fame as Dawson Leary on the popular teen drama Dawson’s Creek, which premiered in 1997 and became a defining show for a generation.
