Actor James Van Der Beek, star of "Dawson's Creek," dies

The entertainment world is in mourning. James Van Der Beek, the actor who brought the iconic Dawson Leery to life in the 90s teen drama "Dawson's Creek," passed away this Wednesday at the age of 48. James Van Der Beek, who rose to fame playing Dawson Leery in the hit 90s teen drama "Dawson's Creek," has died. The news was confirmed through an official statement published on the actor's verified Instagram account. Van Der Beek, known for his gentle gaze, youthful features, and the sincerity he brought to each performance, became a global pop culture icon after the massive success of the series that catapulted him to international fame. "He faced his last days with courage, faith, and grace," the statement says. "There is much to share about his wishes, his love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for privacy and tranquility as we mourn our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend."

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Van Der Beek and his wife Kimberly had six children. In 2024, Van Der Beek announced that he was living with stage 3 colorectal cancer. Born in 1977 in Cheshire, Connecticut, Van Der Beek was the oldest of three children. Van Der Beek became interested in acting in high school, and as a teenager he asked to be taken to New York City to get an agent and audition for roles. Shortly thereafter, he was cast in an off-Broadway play, “Finding the Sun,” and then received an academic scholarship to Drew University in New Jersey. More roles followed, including the role of Rick Sanford in the 1995 film “Angus,” followed by a small role in “I Love You, I Love You Not,” starring Claire Danes. After taking time off from college to travel, Van Der Beek auditioned for the lead role in “Dawson’s Creek,” which would make him a star. The WB's nighttime teen soap opera also starred Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams. The program aired for six seasons, from 1998 to 2003, launching the careers of the four main cast members. Van Der Beek also found success on the big screen with “Varsity Blues” in 1999, “Texas Rangers” in 2001 and “The Rules of Attraction” in 2002. In 2003, he married actress Heather McComb, but they divorced seven years later. At the time of her death, Van Der Beek's wife, Kimberly, shared a GoFundMe campaign through representatives and on social media, alerting the public to the financial strain the family has faced since Van Der Beek's illness began. "The cost of James' medical care and his prolonged battle with cancer have left the family without funds. They are striving to stay in their home and ensure that the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time," says the campaign summary. "The support of friends, family, and the community at large will make a big difference as they navigate the path ahead."