by Natasha JokicBuzzFeedBuzzFeed Staff James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for Dawson's Creek, is dead at age 48. Kevin Winter / Getty Images TMZ was first to report the news of his death. Shortly afterwards, his wife Kimberly posted a statement on Instagram that read, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning." Rick Kern / Getty Images for Hilarity for Charity "He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come.