JokersUpdates.com: Celebrity Buzz - EW: James Van Der Beek, star of Dawson's Creek, dies at 48 following cancer battle

James Van Der Beek, star of Dawson's Creek, dies at 48 following cancer battle
"He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace," the actor's wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared on social media.

By Jordan Hoffman February 11, 2026 2:33 p.m. ET

James Van Der Beek, who played a beloved teen heartthrob at the center of the late '90s and early aughts drama Dawson’s Creek, has died following a battle with colorectal cancer. He was 48.

The actor's wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared a statement on social media on Wednesday, Feb. 11, writing: "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."

Van Der Beek first publicly announced his diagnosis in November 2024 and revealed he was "privately dealing" with his health after being officially diagnosed in 2023. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good," he said at the time.

The actor was born on March 8, 1977, and raised in Connecticut, the eldest of three children. His mother was a one-time professional dancer and gymnastics instructor, and his father was an executive at a mobile phone company. He began performing in school plays at a young age, and urged his parents to let him come into New York City to audition for shows. Van Der Beek began appearing in off-Broadway productions as a teenager and also appeared in some independent films. He attended Drew University in New Jersey on an academic scholarship, but continued to seek acting work. After being cast as Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek suspended his studies…..

https://ew.com/james-van-der-beek-dawsons-creek-star-dies-at-48-11904646

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