Actor James Van Der Beek, widely recognized for his role in the iconic US teen drama Dawson’s Creek, has passed away at the age of 48 after a battle with bowel cancer. In a heartfelt statement shared via his social media accounts, his family conveyed, “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.”
Van Der Beek was diagnosed with bowel cancer in late 2023, although he publicly disclosed his condition in November 2024. He experienced symptoms related to bowel changes, prompting him to seek medical advice that ultimately led to a diagnosis of stage three cancer, which had affected nearby lymph nodes.
Colorectal cancer, which arises from growths in the colon’s inner lining, is more prevalent in men than women. Fortunately, advancements in screening have enhanced early detection efforts, consequently reducing mortality rates associated with this disease.
Reflecting on his journey, Van Der Beek described the emotional toll of treatment, highlighting feelings of identity loss during his battle with cancer. “All these beautiful things that I love, and I used to define myself as – a father, a provider, a husband – all that got taken away, or at least paused,” he expressed. He embraced the realization that despite his challenges, “I’m still worthy of love.”
In light of his own struggles, Van Der Beek actively promoted awareness surrounding cancer screenings, emphasizing the impact of sharing his story. “If I can save anyone from having to go through this, that’s magic,” he shared.
The actor was a prominent figure on television, best known for his portrayal of Dawson Leery alongside Katie Holmes in Dawson’s Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003. He garnered further acclaim in the 1999 coming-of-age film Varsity Blues and appeared as a fictionalized version of himself in the quirky show Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23. Recently, he participated in Prime Video’s college comedy, Overcompensating, and made a surprise virtual appearance at a reunion charity event for Dawson’s Creek on September 22.
Following his passing, condolences have flooded social media, with fans and colleagues alike expressing their sorrow and celebrating his life and contributions to the entertainment industry. James Van Der Beek’s legacy continues to inspire, and his story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness, resilience, and the enduring bonds of love.