James Van Der Beek, best known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, has died at 48.
His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed the news on Wednesday in a statement shared on Instagram. The actor had been battling Stage 3 colorectal cancer after being diagnosed in August 2023. He publicly revealed his diagnosis in November 2024.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” Kimberly wrote. “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.”
Cancer diagnosis and public battle
Van Der Beek first announced his cancer diagnosis in 2024, saying at the time, “I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.”
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States, with around 150,000 Americans diagnosed each year. According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, one in 24 people worldwide will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer during their lifetime.
In November, Van Der Beek auctioned off personal memorabilia from Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues to help pay for medical expenses.
Among the items listed was the necklace his Dawson’s Creek character gave Joey, played by Katie Holmes, for prom. The piece was estimated to sell for between $26,400 and $52,800, according to Deadline. His outfit from the 1998 Dawson’s Creek pilot was expected to fetch nearly $4,000.
From the 1999 football film Varsity Blues, he also auctioned his West Canaan Coyotes hat and black and white Reebok cleats. The estimated value of all items ranged from $1,320 to $52,800.
US decides SpaceX is like an airline, exempting it from Labor Relations Act