James Van Der Beek, ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Star and Generational TV Icon, Dead at 48

James Van Der Beek, the film and television actor best known for playing the title character Dawson Leery on The WB’s “Dawson’s Creek,” has died after a public battle with colorectal cancer. He was 48.

His death on Wednesday, February 11, was shared by his family via Instagram, who wrote, “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.”

Van Der Beek had been diagnosed with cancer in 2023, and went public with the illness in 2024. Van Der Beek was born in Cheshire, Connecticut, in 1977. After getting his start in theater, he had guest roles on TV series like “Clarissa Explains It All…