The lead actor of the American drama Dawson's Creek, James Van Der Beek, has died at 48 after battling colorectal cancer, and tributes from fellow actors are continuing.
James Van Der Beek played the lead role of Dawson Leery in Dawson's Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003, becoming an icon for teenagers worldwide. He was quietly battling illness after being diagnosed in August 2023 with stage 3 colorectal cancer and disclosed the diagnosis in November 2024.
Mary Margaret Humes, who played his mother in the series, wrote on social media, "I am speechless today. James, you were a warrior who fought the impossible with quiet strength and dignity," and "Our last conversation will remain in my heart forever." She added, "Please allow beautiful Kimberly and the family to mourn quietly now."
Kerr Smith, who appeared as Jack McPhee from seasons 2 through 6, paid tribute, "I am grateful to have been able to call James a brother. He will be deeply missed."
Busy Philipps, who joined in season 5 as Audrey Liddell, also said, "The hearts of everyone who knew and loved him ache deeply today," and "Thinking especially of his wife Kimberly and their six children breaks my heart." She added, "James was one of a kind. I loved him and I am grateful for our friendship."
Chad Michael Murray, who played Charlie Todd, said, "He was a giant. His words, art and humanity inspired all of us," offering condolences to the bereaved family.
The deceased's wife Kimberly, who shared news of her husband's death after 15 years of marriage during which they raised six children together, said, "He faced his final days with courage, faith and dignity." She added, "Right now I want quiet time to grieve the loss of my beloved husband and father, son, brother and friend."
Van Der Beek had put Dawson's Creek memorabilia up for auction to help cover cancer treatment costs. He had also planned to attend a reunion collaboration event for the charity "F Cancer," led by Michelle Williams, in September 2025, but his health deterioration prevented an in-person appearance, so he sent greetings via video.
At the time he said, "I can't believe I can't be there in person," and "Thank you to everyone who worked so hard for this night." He went on to express enduring affection for his co-stars, saying, "There's a natural rhythm like high school classmates. The real joy is living many lives and reconnecting to rediscover each other's greatness."
Fans and colleagues are plunged into deep sorrow at the early death of a youth star who represented a generation.<
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