Image Credit: Getty Images James Van Der Beek was mourned by his former Dawson's Creek co-stars, peers, friends and family when he died on February 11, 2026, following a battle with colorectal cancer. As Hollywood paid tribute to his on-screen work and off-screen personality, James' career, net worth and overall legacy made headlines. "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning," a statement shared to James' Instagram that day read. "He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.