James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his role as Dawson Leery in the hit 1990s television series Dawson’s Creek, has died at the age of 48, according to reports confirmed by RTE.
The news of Van Der Beek’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from his former co-stars. Actors from Dawson’s Creek described him as “one in a billion,” following his death after a reported illness, RTE reported earlier today.
Van Der Beek rose to prominence playing the titular character in Dawson’s Creek, a series that captivated audiences with its portrayal of teenage life and relationships. The show ran for six seasons, from 1998 to 2003 and launched the careers of several young actors.
In November 2025, Van Der Beek began auctioning off memorabilia from both Dawson’s Creek and his 1999 film Varsity Blues, with the proceeds earmarked to help cover the costs of his treatment for stage 3 cancer, according to RTE. The auction included scripts, props, and wardrobe items from the productions.
Details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain limited. RTE’s initial report, published 13 hours ago, did not specify a cause of death beyond stating he had been undergoing treatment. Further information has not yet been released by his family or representatives.
A fundraiser established to support Van Der Beek’s widow and children reportedly surpassed $500,000 within hours of its launch, demonstrating the widespread affection for the actor and the desire to support his family during this difficult time, according to The Guardian.
