Dawson’s Creek Cast and Others Pay Tribute to James Van Der Beek

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I was so shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of James Van Der Beek, best known as Dawson from the show Dawson’s Creek. He was only 48. It’s been amazing to see all the heartfelt messages from people in Hollywood and everywhere else. It’s also really touching that people are rallying to help his family with the financial burden of his long battle with cancer. It’s just a really sad loss.

James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning, his wife Kimberly announced on his official Instagram account Wednesday. The post shared that he faced his final days with courage, faith, and grace. The family plans to share more about his wishes and values later, but currently requests privacy as they mourn the loss of their husband, father, son, brother, and friend.

In November 2024, actor Van Der Beek revealed he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August of the previous year. He told People magazine that he had been handling the diagnosis privately and working with his family to address it. To help cover the costs of treatment, Van Der Beek also sold some of his personal collectibles.

After Van Der Beek passed away, a link to a GoFundMe page was shared on his Instagram, asking for help to support his wife and six children. The page explained that the expenses from his cancer treatment have exhausted the family’s finances, and they are now facing a difficult and uncertain future.

As a film fan, I was really touched by the incredible outpouring of support for James Van Der Beek and his family. Within just one day of the fundraiser going live, over 20,000 people donated, and the amount raised quickly soared past $1 million – and it’s still growing! His wife, Kimberly, shared a heartfelt thank you on Instagram, explaining that their friends set up the fundraiser to help them and their kids through a really tough time. She ended it with a simple, but powerful, message: “With gratitude and a broken heart.”

Dawson’s Creek

Born in Cheshire, Connecticut, in 1977 as the oldest of three children, James Van Der Beek began his acting career on stage. He first appeared in an off-Broadway play in 1993, and soon after landed roles in the films Angus (1995) and I Love You, I Love You Not (1996), alongside some television work.

The WB television show Dawson’s Creek, which first aired in 1998, made Van Der Beek a star. He played Dawson Leery, a sensitive teenager who loved movies. In a 2013 interview with Larry King, Van Der Beek remembered auditioning for the part and almost losing it because some executives had doubts. However, Kevin Williamson, the show’s creator, insisted, saying, ‘I created this character, I know him, and this kid is perfect for the role.’

The show, lasting six seasons, was a major hit with American teens and helped define the teen drama genre.

Many of Van Der Beek’s co-stars from the show have since expressed their grief at his passing.

Katie Holmes, known for her role as Joey Potter on Dawson’s Creek, shared a heartfelt handwritten letter to Van Der Beek on Instagram. The letter began with a thank you, expressing how special it was to share the creative space with him, feeling safe and trusting while acting. She also sent her support and love to Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, and their children, letting them know she and others are always there for them.

Mary-Margaret Humes, who played the mother of the main character in Dawson’s Creek, shared photos with James Van Der Beek on Instagram and remembered speaking to him shortly before he passed away. She wrote that he was a ‘gracious warrior’ who faced his challenges with quiet strength and dignity, qualities she deeply admired. Humes added that their recent conversations would always be cherished memories.

Busy Philipps, who played Audrey Liddell on the show alongside Joey, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram about Van Der Beek. She described him as incredibly special and said she was deeply saddened for his family, adding, “I’m just so incredibly sad. He was a friend I loved, and I’m so thankful for our friendship over the years.”

Chad Michael Murray, known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, praised Van Der Beek as an inspiring figure and a truly kind person. Kerr Smith, who played Jack McPhee on the show, said Van Der Beek felt like a brother and he would miss him greatly.

The show’s Instagram page shared a heartfelt message remembering James Van Der Beek and the lasting influence of his character, Dawson Leery. They noted that his performance was iconic and had a significant impact on a generation of TV viewers, continuing to connect with people today.

An American pop culture icon

The TV show Dawson’s Creek made Van Der Beek a teen star and led to more acting roles. He became even more well-known after appearing in films like Varsity Blues (1999), Texas Rangers (2001), and The Rules of Attraction (2002).

Many of his colleagues expressed their sadness after his passing. Sarah Michelle Gellar, known for her role as Buffy in the 1997 series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared a photo with him on Instagram, calling him “one of the good guys” and saying his death was a significant loss. Melissa Joan Hart, famous for Sabrina the Teenage Witch, posted a picture of them together from their appearance on the 1990s Nickelodeon show Clarissa Explains It All, writing that he was a kind person, a devoted father, and a talented actor. She fondly remembered him as her first on-screen kiss on the show and praised his courageous battle, noting he was taken too soon.

Austin Nichols, a former co-star of James Van Der Beek on the TV show One Tree Hill, shared on Instagram that Van Der Beek was someone he looked up to.

Director Kevin Smith, who worked with James Van Der Beek on the films Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001) and its 2019 sequel, shared a story about the actor’s willingness to embrace even silly roles. Smith wrote that Van Der Beek was a generous and funny person, recalling how the actor fully committed to his parts, even in less-than-perfect movies. Smith expressed gratitude for Van Der Beek’s support in bringing his visions to life, highlighting the actor’s warmth and humility, and noting they collaborated on projects 18 years apart.

Between 2012 and 2013, James Van Der Beek appeared as himself in a comedic role on the ABC show Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, alongside Krysten Ritter. Following his passing, Ritter shared photos of them together on Instagram, describing him as a wonderful person, both inside and out, and a truly magical performer.

In 2017, James Van Der Beek played DJ and music producer Diplo in the miniseries What Would Diplo Do? He also wrote and helped produce the show, and critics especially praised his acting.

Dancing With the Stars

On the TV show Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, a fictional version of actor Jason Van Der Beek appeared on Dancing With the Stars. Five years after his sitcom ended, the real Jason Van Der Beek also competed on the show, joining season 28 of the dance competition.

Alfonso Ribeiro, a close friend and godfather to Van Der Beek’s daughter, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram following the actor’s passing. He described him as a true friend, brother, and mentor, and spoke about supporting him throughout his difficult battle with cancer. Ribeiro acknowledged the emotional ups and downs experienced by the actor’s loved ones, from moments of hope to devastating setbacks.

Ribeiro shared his love for James and expressed his belief in a guardian angel protecting him. He said being able to say goodbye this weekend was a deeply meaningful experience he’ll always cherish.

Bruno Tonioli, a judge on Dancing With the Stars, praised James Van Der Beek in an Instagram post, calling him “a true gentleman and the ultimate professional.”

Julianne Hough, who also hosted the show, shared a message on Instagram saying she’ll remember James as someone who spread love and positivity, and that she’s sending her support to his family.

Emma Slater, who partnered with James Van Der Beek on the show, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, calling him a “big brother” and expressing gratitude for his impact on her life. She explained their relationship began as dance partners, quickly blossoming into a deep friendship. Slater said she felt fortunate to have known him, highlighting his generosity and the positive influence he had on countless people, and that he would always hold a special place in her heart.

Slater posted a video of him and his wife, Kimberly, doing the samba – her favorite dance. Kimberly wrote that Slater loved to dance and she believes he continues to dance in spirit.

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2026-02-12 15:07