'Dawson's Creek' star James Van Der Beek dead at 48
Legendary American actor James Van Der Beek has died at the age of 48.
His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed the news in a joint Instagram post with the late actor on Wednesday, Feb. 11.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” reads the post.
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The Dawson’s Creek star is survived by Kimberly and their six kids — daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah.
“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,” reads the post.
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The cause of death has not been disclosed, but Van Der Beek was battling stage 3 colorectal cancer.
“I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” the Varsity Blues star told PEOPLE in an exclusive interview in November 2024.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS), colorectal cancer starts in the cells of the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine and digestive system.
The five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer is 67 per cent in Canada.
“This means about 67 per cent of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer will survive for at least 5 years after their diagnosis,” explained the CCS.
Van Der Beek shared more of his experience living with cancer in an Instagram post on March 8, 2025.
“This year, I had to look my own mortality in the eye. I had to come nose to nose with death, and all of those definitions that I cared so deeply about were stripped for me,” he shared.
The actor explained how he grappled with losing his ability to be a helpful and able father and husband.
“I was faced with the question, if I am just a too skinny, weak guy alone in an apartment with cancer, what am I? And I meditated, and the answer came through: I am worthy of God’s love simply because I exist,” he said.
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The former teen heartthrob is also known for his roles in One Tree Hill, Don’t Trust the B—– in Apartment 23, and his fifth-place stint on Dancing with the Stars.
Celebrities flooded the Instagram comments with condolences.
“What a heartbreaking loss. So much love to you, Kimberly, and to your kids, as you navigate this tender time. ♥️” wrote 13 Going on 30 star Jennifer Garner.
“Sending love and light to your beautiful family. James was a giant. We’re so so so sorry for what you’re going through. His words, art and humanity inspired all of us- he inspired us to be better in all ways. God bless you guys,” commented Freaky Friday star Chad Michael Murray.
Kimblery says friends of the family have started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for the costs of her husband’s medical care.
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“They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time,” reads the fundraiser.
“Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education.”
As of Feb. 11 afternoon, the GoFundMe has raised over $166,000.
Van Der Beek isn’t the only iconic actor who has died in 2026. On Jan. 30, the world was shocked to learn of Canadian actress Catherine O’Hara’s passing at the age of 71.