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James Van Der Beek, beloved for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek and star of Varsity Blues, has died at 48 following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. His wife, Kimberly, announced his passing on Wednesday, remembering him as a husband and father who faced his final days with “courage, faith, and grace.”

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What to Know

• Van Der Beek revealed his cancer diagnosis in November 2024 after it was discovered during a routine colonoscopy.
• He and Kimberly share six children, whom he often described as his greatest joy.
• The actor reflected on his illness as a “life redirect,” saying it taught him strength and gratitude.
• He missed a Dawson’s Creek reunion in 2024 due to illness but sent a heartfelt video message to fans.
• His career spanned TV and film, including Don’t Trust the B---- in Apartment 23, Varsity Blues, and recent projects like Overcompensating and Elle, a Legally Blonde prequel.

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Feb 11, 2026 at 08:00 PM EST

Sarah Michelle Gellar says Van Der Beek’s death is ‘huge loss to…the world’

Sarah Michelle Gellar described James Van Der Beek as "one of good guys" as she described his death as a "huge loss to... the world."

"I grew up alongside James," Gellar said in an Instagram story, alongside a selfie with Van Der Beek. "He was one of the good guys. This is a true loss."

In the comments on an Instagram, announcing his death, Gellar added she was "so sad for your beautiful family."

"While James legacy will always live on, this is a huge loss to not just your family but the world. F--k Cancer," she added.

Feb 11, 2026 at 07:38 PM EST

Fellow 90s star Melissa Joan Heart remembers Van Der Beek as her first on-screen kiss

Melissa Joan Heart, who starred in the titular roles on Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Clarissa Explains It All, said she was "heartbroken" by the loss of fellow 90s and 2000s icon James Van Der Beek on Wednesday.

Heart shared that Van Der Beek had been her first on-screen kiss when he guest starred on Clarissa Explains It All

"I'm heartbroken to hear that @vanderjames has passed away," she wrote in an Instagram post. "He was truly a nice guy, a great father, wonderful actor and will always be my first on screen kiss.

"Gone way too soon but it seems like he put up one hell of a fight," she continued. "We ran into each other at the singing game show #WeAreFamily about two years ago when he sang a song with his daughter, encouraging her like a good dad does. My thoughts and prayers go out to his 6 kids, his wife and family!"

Feb 11, 2026 at 07:17 PM EST

James Van Der Beek’s longtime friend and ex-WWE star Stacy Keibler shares details of his final days

James Van Der Beek's longtime friend and former-WWE star Stacy Keibler has shared details about the Dawson's Creek's final days.

In a post on Instagram, Keibler shared a photo of herself sitting with Van Der Beek, sitting in a wheelchair, at his Texas ranch, as she said spending the final days with her friend had been a "gift from god."

"The other night we watched the sunset together as you shared your wisdom, your hopes, and the promises we made to each other," she wrote. "We talked about how this world can feel upside down…and how maybe heaven needs your spirit now to help steady us down here. And just as the sun slipped away, a shooting star crossed the sky…as if to remind us that none of this is random

"When you know time is sacred, you don’t waste a single breath," she continued. "You don’t rush. You don’t scroll. You don’t worry about tomorrow. You sit. You listen. You hold hands. You watch the sky change colors and you let it change you too."

Keibler described Van Der Beek as an "incredible husband" and an "extraordinary dad," adding, 'We may have lost a good one here on earth… but heaven gained something extraordinary.

"I will think of you every time I watch a sunset. Every time I see a rainbow stretch across the sky. I’ll know you’re there."

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Feb 11, 2026 at 07:00 PM EST

WATCH: James Van Der Beek dies aged 48

Feb 11, 2026 at 06:40 PM EST

Lin Manuel Miranda says ‘whole heart is with Van Der Beek family’

Lin Manuel Miranda offered his support to the family of James Van Der Beek on Wednesday, following the news of his death from colorectal cancer.

The Hamilton shared a photos of himself with Van Der Beek's family on his Instagram stories, with the caption, "My whole heart is with the Van Der Beek family today."

Feb 11, 2026 at 06:20 PM EST

Busy Philipps says ‘heart is deeply hurting’ after loss of Dawson’s Creek costar

Actress Busy Philipps said on Wednesday that her "heart is deeply hurting" after the death of James Van Der Beek.

Philipps joined the cast of Dawson's Creek in season 5, playing Audrey Liddell, while Van Der Beek played the titular character, Dawson Leery.

"My heart is deeply hurting for all of us today…every person who knew James and loved him, anyone who loved his work or had the pleasure of meeting him, all of his dear friends and community that surrounded him as he battled this illness, especially his parents and brother and sister," Busy wrote in a social media post.

"But I am profoundly heartbroken for his incredible wife Kimberly and their six magical children," she added.

"James Van Der Beek was one in a billion and he will be forever missed and i don’t know what else to say. i am just so so sad. He was my friend and I loved him and i’m so grateful for our friendship all these years."

Feb 11, 2026 at 06:00 PM EST

James Van Der Beek GoFundMe hits milestone as family risks losing home

A GoFundMe launched to support the family of late Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek has surpassed a major fundraising milestone, as his wife and six children face mounting financial strain following the actor’s death, announced on Wednesday.

The fundraiser, titled **“**Support for James Van Der Beek’s Family,” was created shortly after the actor died on February 11 at age 48. According to the campaign description, the costs of his medical care and prolonged cancer treatment left the family “out of funds,” putting their ability to remain in their home at risk.

The GoFundMe had passed the six‑figure mark hours after his death was announced, drawing widespread support from fans, fellow actors and members of the entertainment industry. More than $370,000 had been contributed as of publication, with a goal of raising at least $550,000.

News of the GoFundMe spread quickly after Van Der Beek’s death was confirmed in a statement posted to his Instagram account.

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” the family wrote. “He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace."

Tributes poured in from former co‑stars and friends, many of whom shared memories of the actor and praised his resilience during his battle with colorectal cancer.

Read in full: James Van Der Beek GoFundMe Hits Milestone as Family Risks Losing Home

Feb 11, 2026 at 05:42 PM EST

Who is Kimberly Brook, James Van Der Beek’s wife?

James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife of 15 years, Kimberly Van Der Beek, with whom he shared six children. The couple met in Israel in 2009 and married the following year in Tel Aviv.

Kimberly, who worked as an associate producer on the documentary Teenage Paparazzo, has also co‑hosted the podcast Bathroom Chronicles. She and James were candid about their experiences with pregnancy loss, partnering with the American Red Cross in 2021 to raise awareness about the importance of blood donations.

Together, they welcomed daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah. In 2020, the family relocated from Los Angeles to Texas, embracing a quieter life after a series of personal challenges.

In announcing James’s death from colorectal cancer on February 11, Kimberly described his final days as marked by “courage, faith, and grace,” asking for privacy as the family grieves.

Feb 11, 2026 at 05:29 PM EST

Was James Van Der Beek on ‘Dancing with the Stars’?

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Actor James Van Der Beek competed on Season 28 of Dancing With the Stars, partnered with professional dancer Emma Slater. The pair finished in fifth place, earning praise for their chemistry and Van Der Beek’s commitment to the competition.

Over the course of the season, Van Der Beek delivered standout performances, including a contemporary routine to “Don’t Stop Believin’” that earned a perfect score of 30. His average score across the season was 25.1, with his lowest being a 20 for a cha‑cha.

Despite his elimination before the finals, Van Der Beek’s run was marked by versatility, tackling dances from tango to samba, and showcasing both technical skill and emotional storytelling. His time on the show deepened his bond with Slater, who later described him as “family.”

Feb 11, 2026 at 05:14 PM EST

Emma Slater mourns James Van Der Beek, calls him family

“Dancing With the Stars” professional Emma Slater shared an emotional tribute to James Van Der Beek, her partner on Season 28, following his death.

“I’m so devastated. He is and will always be family to me,” Slater wrote, adding that she was grateful to have been present to say goodbye. She praised Van Der Beek’s character, saying, “The man that you are, you can be proud of.”

Feb 11, 2026 at 05:01 PM EST

Craig Melvin remembers James Van Der Beek’s faith and family focus

NBC anchor Craig Melvin paid tribute to James Van Der Beek following his death, recalling a recent visit to the actor’s Texas ranch.

Melvin said Van Der Beek was reflective during their time together, speaking about faith, family, and the lessons he drew from his battle with cancer. “He was focusing on the most important parts of this journey we’re on – God, family, especially those six kids, and the ‘gift’ he says cancer gave him,” Melvin wrote on X.

Calling Van Der Beek “a special man,” Melvin added that the actor’s perspective and resilience left a lasting impression.

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Feb 11, 2026 at 04:48 PM EST

Stacy Keibler reflects on final days with James Van Der Beek

Stacy Keibler shared a heartfelt tribute to James Van Der Beek after his death, calling their final days together a profound gift.

“Spending these final days with you has been a true gift from God,” she wrote, adding that the experience taught her to slow down, listen, and cherish each moment. Keibler said Van Der Beek’s strength and smile never faded despite his long battle with illness.

She praised his resilience and the joy he brought to others, noting that while his physical presence is gone, she believes his spirit endures. “Your presence was a bright light in my life, and in so many others,” she said.

Feb 11, 2026 at 04:34 PM EST

Chad Michael Murray pays tribute to James Van Der Beek

Actor Chad Michael Murray shared heartfelt condolences following the death of James Van Der Beek, calling the Dawson’s Creek star “a giant.”

“Sending love and light to your beautiful family,” Murray wrote. “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.”

Feb 11, 2026 at 04:20 PM EST

Why did James Van Der Beek auction memorabilia ahead of his death?

James Van Der Beek, best known for Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues, auctioned off memorabilia from his career to help ease the financial strain of his cancer treatment back in September. The 48‑year‑old actor, who revealed in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, partnered with Propstore for a live auction that ran from December 5–7, 2025.

Items include the necklace Dawson gave Joey for prom in Dawson’s Creek, expected to fetch between $26,400 and $52,800, and his outfit from the show’s pilot episode, valued at $4,000. Fans of Varsity Blues will also have the chance to bid on his cleats and West Canaan Coyotes hat.

Van Der Beek said he had saved the pieces for years, waiting for the right moment: “With all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented, it’s clear that the time is now.” He added that while parting with the items carries nostalgia, he hopes sharing them with fans will honor their support throughout his career.

Feb 11, 2026 at 04:06 PM EST

Renée Elise Goldsberry narrates Dawson’s Creek reunion

Hamilton alum Renée Elise Goldsberry played a central role in the Dawson’s Creek reunion held September 22, 2025, at New York’s Richard Rodgers Theatre. Goldsberry served as narrator for a staged reading of the show’s pilot episode, marking the first time the cast had reunited in more than two decades.

The charity event raised funds for F Cancer and for series star James Van Der Beek, who was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer and died on February 11, 2026. Goldsberry said the evening gave her “chills,” describing the emotional impact of seeing the cast experience the energy of a live audience.

The night also featured appearances by Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, Busy Philipps, and Lin‑Manuel Miranda, who stepped in for Van Der Beek after illness prevented him from attending in person. Van Der Beek surprised fans at the event with a pre‑recorded video message, thanking supporters and calling them “the best fans in the world.”

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Feb 11, 2026 at 03:53 PM EST

James Van Der Beek net worth revealed

James Van Der Beek, remembered for his breakout role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek and his performance in Varsity Blues, died at 48 after a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer.

At the time of his passing in February 2026, Van Der Beek’s net worth was estimated at around $3 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. His earnings came from decades of work across television, film, and reality projects, including The Rules of Attraction, Don’t Trust the B in Apartment 23, and Dancing With the Stars.

In recent years, Van Der Beek sold memorabilia from Varsity Blues and Dawson’s Creek to help offset the costs of his cancer treatment, underscoring both the financial strain of his illness and his enduring connection to fans.

Feb 11, 2026 at 03:40 PM EST

Who did James Van Der Beek play on ‘Dawson’s Creek’?

In Dawson’s Creek, James Van Der Beek portrayed Dawson Leery, the show’s central character and namesake. Dawson was an introspective teenager with dreams of becoming a filmmaker, inspired by his idol, Steven Spielberg.

Throughout the series, Dawson navigated the complexities of growing up in Capeside, Massachusetts, balancing his passion for movies with the challenges of friendship and romance. His relationships with childhood friend Joey Potter and neighbor Jen Lindley formed the emotional core of the drama, often pulling him into love triangles and heartbreak.

Feb 11, 2026 at 03:27 PM EST

What is ‘Dawson’s Creek’ about?

Dawson’s Creek was a teen drama that aired on The WB from 1998 to 2003, following the lives of a close group of friends in the fictional town of Capeside, Massachusetts. The series centered on Dawson Leery, an aspiring filmmaker, his childhood best friend Joey Potter, their witty companion Pacey Witter, and newcomer Jen Lindley, who moved from New York to live with her grandparents.

The show explored the group’s coming‑of‑age journey through high school and college, tackling themes such as first love, friendship, family struggles, mental health, homophobia, addiction, and loss. Known for its sharp dialogue and emotional depth, the series helped launch the careers of James Van Der Beek, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams.

Alongside Buffy the Vampire Slayer and 7th Heaven, Dawson’s Creek became one of The WB’s flagship programs, credited with sparking a wave of teen‑centered dramas in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

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Feb 11, 2026 at 03:19 PM EST

Fans recall Van Der Beek’s iconic ‘Varsity Blues’ speech

Actor James Van Der Beek is remembered not only for his role on Dawson’s Creek but also for one of the most memorable locker-room speeches in sports-film history.

In Varsity Blues (1999), Van Der Beek played quarterback Jonathon “Mox” Moxon, delivering a rallying cry that has endured with fans: “We got the rest of our lives to be mediocre, but we have the opportunity to play like Gods for the next half of football.”

Fox reporter Ryan Schmelz highlighted the moment on social media, calling it one of the best locker room speeches ever captured on film. The line remains a defining piece of Van Der Beek’s career, cementing his place in pop culture beyond teen drama stardom.

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Feb 11, 2026 at 03:13 PM EST

What is colorectal cancer?

Colon cancer begins in the large intestine and often develops from small growths called polyps. While polyps are usually harmless, some can turn cancerous over time. Because polyps rarely cause symptoms, doctors recommend routine screenings to detect and remove them early, helping prevent cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The disease most often affects adults over 50, but can occur at younger ages. Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Treatments range from surgery and chemotherapy to targeted and immunotherapy options.

Risk factors include family history, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and diets high in red or processed meat. Preventive steps include regular screenings, eating more fruits and vegetables, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco.

Colon cancer is sometimes referred to as colorectal cancer, a term that also includes cancers beginning in the rectum.

Feb 11, 2026 at 03:09 PM EST

What movies was James Van Der Beek in?

Here is a list of the movie roles James Van Der Beek was credited:

• Angus (1995) – Rick Sandford
• I Love You, I Love You Not (1996) – Tony
• Harvest (1998) – James Peterson
• Varsity Blues (1999) – Jonathon “Mox” Moxon
• Scary Movie (2000) – Dawson Leery (uncredited cameo)
• Texas Rangers (2001) – Lincoln Rogers Dunnison
• Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001) – Himself
• The Rules of Attraction (2002) – Sean Bateman
• Castle in the Sky (2003) – Pazu (English dub)
• Standing Still (2005) – Simon
• The Plague (2006) – Tom Russell
• Final Draft (2007) – Paul Twist
• Formosa Betrayed (2009) – Jake Kelly
• Stolen (2009) – Roggiani
• The Big Bang (2010) – Adam Nova
• Backwards (2012) – Geoff
• The Magic Bracelet (2013) – Joe (short film)
• Labor Day (2013) – Officer Treadwell
• Power/Rangers (2015) – Rocky DeSantos / Red Ranger (short film)
• Downsizing (2017) – Anesthesiologist
• Jay and Silent Bob Reboot (2019) – Himself
• Bad Hair (2020) – Grant
• Sidelined: The QB and Me (2024) – Leroy Lahey
• Sidelined 2: Intercepted (2025) – Leroy Lahey

Feb 11, 2026 at 03:05 PM EST

James Van Der Beek’s TV credits spanned decades

James Van Der Beek’s acting career stretched across television, film, and stage, showcasing his versatility in both drama and comedy. He rose to fame as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003), a role that defined a generation of teen television.

• Clarissa Explains It All (1993) – Paulie
• As the World Turns (1995) – Stephen Anderson (3 episodes)
• Aliens in the Family (1996) – Ethan
• Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003) – Dawson Leery (Main cast, 122 episodes)
• Robot Chicken (2006) – Various voices
• Criminal Minds (2007) – Tobias Hankel / Raphael
• Ugly Betty (2007) – Luke Carnes
• Eye of the Beast (2007) – Dan Leland (TV film)
• How I Met Your Mother (2008–2013) – Simon (3 episodes)
• One Tree Hill (2008–2009) – Adam Reese
• Medium (2009) – Dylan Hoyt
• The Storm (2009) – Dr. Jonathan Kirk (Miniseries)
• The Forgotten (2009) – Judd Shaw
• Taken in Broad Daylight (2009) – Tony Zappa (TV film)
• Mrs. Miracle (2009) – Seth Webster
• Mercy (2010) – Dr. Joe Briggs (10 episodes)
• Law & Order: Criminal Intent (2011) – Rex Tamlyn
• Franklin & Bash (2011) – Nathan
• Salem Falls (2011) – Jack St. Bride (TV film)
• Don’t Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 (2012–2013) – Himself (Main cast, 26 episodes)
• Law & Order: SVU (2012) – Sean Albert
• The Eric André Show (2013) – Himself
• Friends with Better Lives (2014) – Will Stokes (Main cast)
• CSI: Cyber (2015–2016) – Elijah Mundo (Main cast)
• Carters Get Rich (2017) – Trent Zebrisky
• What Would Diplo Do? (2017) – Diplo (Co‑creator, writer)
• Room 104 (2017) – Scott
• Vampirina (2017–2021) – Boris Hauntley (voice, main cast)
• Modern Family (2017) – Bo Johnson
• Drop the Mic (2017) – Himself
• Pose (2018) – Matt Bromley (Season 1)
• Dancing with the Stars (2019) – Contestant, Season 28
• 25 Words or Less (2020) – Himself
• We Are Family (2024) – Himself with daughter Olivia
• The Real Full Monty (2024) – Himself (TV special)
• The Masked Singer (2025) – Griffin (Season 13 contestant)
• Overcompensating (2025) – Charlie (2 episodes)
• Elle (2026, posthumous release) – Dean Wilson

Feb 11, 2026 at 03:01 PM EST

Was James Van Der Beek married and did he have children?

James Van Der Beek was married twice, first to actress Heather McComb from 2003 until their divorce was finalized in 2010. Later that year, he married business consultant Kimberly Brook in a small ceremony at the Kabbalah Center in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Together, Van Der Beek and Brook welcomed six children — four daughters and two sons — and often spoke about the joys and challenges of raising a large family. The couple also endured heartbreak, with Brook suffering multiple miscarriages, including two at 17 weeks or later.

In 2020, the family relocated from Los Angeles to Texas, a move Van Der Beek described as a fresh start. He frequently credited his wife and children as his greatest source of strength, calling fatherhood a “humbling” and deeply rewarding experience.

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Feb 11, 2026 at 02:56 PM EST

What illness did James Van Der Beek suffer of?

James Van Der Beek, the Dawson’s Creek star who died this week at 48, revealed in 2024 that he had been privately battling stage 3 colorectal cancer.

Diagnosed in August 2023, he kept the news quiet for more than a year before sharing it publicly, saying he was focused on his health and family.

Feb 11, 2026 at 02:52 PM EST

James Van Der Beek’s Career spanned TV, film, and stage

James Van Der Beek, who died at 48, built a career that spanned from teen-drama stardom to acclaimed stage and screen roles. He rose to fame as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003), a role that helped define The WB network and made him a household name.

On film, he starred in Varsity Blues (1999), Texas Rangers (2001), and The Rules of Attraction (2002), later earning praise for his performance in Formosa Betrayed (2009). His television work included playing a satirical version of himself on Don’t Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 (2012–2013), FBI Agent Elijah Mundo on CSI: Cyber (2015–2016), and Matt Bromley in the first season of FX’s Pose (2018).

Van Der Beek also explored comedy and self‑parody, co‑creating and starring in What Would Diplo Do? in 2017, which earned strong reviews. He competed on Dancing with the Stars in 2019 and appeared on The Masked Singer in 2025.

From his early off‑Broadway debut at 16 to his later ventures as a writer and producer, Van Der Beek’s career reflected versatility and resilience, leaving a lasting mark on television and film.

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Feb 11, 2026 at 02:47 PM EST

James Van Der Beek, ‘Dawson’s Creek’ star, dies at 48

James Van Der Beek, best known for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek and his breakout performance in Varsity Blues, has died at 48 after a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer.

His wife, Kimberly, announced the news on Instagram, writing that he “passed peacefully this morning” and faced his final days with “courage, faith, and grace.” The couple share six children.

Van Der Beek revealed his diagnosis in November 2024, saying he was focused on his health and family. He later described the journey as requiring “more patience, more discipline, more strength than I knew I had.”

Born in Connecticut in 1977, Van Der Beek rose to fame in the late 1990s and went on to star in films and television series including Don’t Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 and How I Met Your Mother. He most recently appeared in the comedy series Overcompensating and was set to star in Elle, a Legally Blonde prequel.

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