Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek dies aged 48 James Van Der Beek has passed away at the age of 48. 11 February 2026 James Van Der Beek has died aged 48. James Van Der Beek has passed away The actor - who was best known for playing Dawson Leery in the hit TV series Dawson's Creek - has passed away after being diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer back in August 2023. Kimberly Van Der Beek, his wife, said on Instagram: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.