James Van Der Beek, best known for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, passed away on February 11, 2026. He was 48 years old. He has passed away following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
Van Der Beek’s family announced the news with a statement on his Instagram:
“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.”
James Van Der Beek built a successful career in television and film. He was widely known for his role as Dawson Leery on the hit series “Dawson’s Creek,” which aired from 1998 to 2003.
After the series ended he continued working in both television and film. He took on a wide variety of roles going forward. He appeared in movies such as “Varsity Blues,” “The Rules of Attraction,” and “Scary Movie.”
