The entertainment world mourns the loss of James Van Der Beek, the beloved actor who became an icon of 1990s television as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek. He passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 48, after a year-long battle with bowel cancer. His family confirmed his peaceful passing in a heartfelt statement on his official Instagram, honoring his courage, grace, and lifelong devotion to loved ones.
Van Der Beek rose to fame in 1998, transforming the teen drama landscape with his portrayal of a thoughtful, introspective high schooler navigating adolescence in Capeside. At the height of his early fame, he was named one of People magazine’s “Most Beautiful People,” but he remained grounded, later embracing humor and self-awareness through viral memes and comedic roles.
He publicly shared his diagnosis in November 2024 while preparing for a charity TV special to raise awareness for cancer screenings. Over the next year, the actor faced mounting health and financial challenges, auctioning personal memorabilia to cover the costs of specialized treatment. A GoFundMe page set up for his wife, Kimberly, and their six children—Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah—highlighted the enormous financial strain his illness had placed on the family.
For fans, Dawson Leery was a childhood friend and cultural touchstone. For his family, James was a devoted father and husband, often sharing glimpses of a family life rooted in Texas, away from Hollywood’s chaos. Kimberly Van Der Beek has shared a memorial fund to settle medical debts and secure the children’s education, a cause supported by countless fans and colleagues.
James Van Der Beek’s legacy goes beyond the screen. He became an advocate for time, presence, and early cancer detection, using his platform to connect deeply with the world even in the face of illness. He will be remembered as a talented actor, a devoted father, and a man of quiet, unwavering grace. The creek may have ended, but the impact of his life and love will ripple on.