James Van Der Beek Dies: Dawson’s Creek Star Dead at 48

James Van Der Beek, the actor celebrated for his role as Dawson Leery in the 1990s television series Dawson’s Creek, died Wednesday morning at the age of 48, according to a statement released by his family.

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” the statement, shared on Van Der Beek’s official Instagram page, read. The family requested privacy as they grieve, adding that details regarding his wishes and legacy would be shared at a later time.

Van Der Beek’s death follows a diagnosis of bowel cancer revealed in November 2024, as he prepared to participate in the US charity television special, The Real Full Monty, a program based on the British film of the same name, which raises awareness of cancer through celebrity participation. In November 2025, the actor announced plans to auction off memorabilia from his career to help fund his cancer treatment, according to reports.

Born in Connecticut in 1977, Van Der Beek initially pursued sports before a concussion sustained in a childhood football accident led him to acting. Doctors advised him to refrain from playing sports for a year, prompting him to audition for and land the lead role of Danny Zuko in a school production of Grease.

He rose to prominence in 1998 with Dawson’s Creek, portraying the teenage filmmaker Dawson Leery, a character captivated by both cinema and his neighbor, Joey Potter, played by Katie Holmes. Later that year, he was recognized as one of People magazine’s “Most Beautiful People in the World.”

The Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Van Der Beek’s death at 6:44 a.m. Local time, though no specific cause of death was immediately provided, according to the Irish Mirror.

Tributes to Van Der Beek have begun to emerge on social media, with many remembering him as a kind and talented individual. Benito Skinner described him as “A legend in every way.” Adam Richman expressed shock, stating he had met Van Der Beek several times and found him to be a “vibrant gentleman.” Hayley Kiyoko also paid tribute, noting his kindness and love.