Hollywood is mourning the loss of “Dawson’s Creek” star James Van Der Beek, who died Wednesday at the age of 48.
Van der Beek was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023 and announced his diagnosis the following year.
The actor’s family announced his death on Instagram, writing, “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. We have much to share about wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. That day will come. For now, we seek peace and privacy as we mourn our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Sarah Michelle Gellar, Chad Michael Murray and others paid tribute to Van Der Beek in the comments of his Instagram post.
“I feel so sad for your beautiful family,” Geller wrote. “James’ legacy will always live on, but this is a great loss, not just to your family, but to the world. Fuck cancer.”
Murray shared similar sentiments, writing, “Sending love and light to your beautiful family. James was a giant and we are so sorry for what you are going through. His words, art, and humanity were an inspiration to all of us – he inspired us to be better in every way. God bless you.”
Dancing with the Stars pro Emma Slater, who competed against Van Der Beek in season 28, said: “I’m devastated. He is and always will be family to me. I love you so much, James. You’re a man I’m so proud of. I’m so grateful to be there to say goodbye.”
Paul Walter Hauser posted an image of the amount raised for Van Der Beek’s cancer treatment on his Instagram page with the message: “I love you, James. I know you are surrounded by love in heaven. The Van Der Beek family prays every day and raises money to support your beautiful family. Thank you for your work and for being one of the good guys.”
Van der Beek is best known for playing Dawson Leery on the WB drama series Dawson’s Creek, which aired for six seasons from 1998 to 2003. He went on to appear in several shows, playing a fictional version of himself on the ABC sitcom “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23.” Other television credits include “Mercy,” “How I Met Your Mother,” “Friends With Better Lives,” “CSI: Cyber,” “Pose,” and “Vampirina.”
On the film side, Van Der Beek starred as Mox in the 1999 sports drama Varsity Blues. His other film credits include “Texas Rangers,” “The Rules of Attraction,” “Formosa Betrayed,” “Labor Day,” and “Bad Hair.”
Read the tribute to Van der Beek below.
