Reese Witherspoon 'devastated' by James Van Der Beek's death Reese Witherspoon has taken to social media to reflect on James Van Der Beek's passing. 13 February 2026 Reese Witherspoon feels "devastated" by James Van Der Beek's death. Reese Witherspoon has paid tribute to James Van Der Beek The Dawson's Creek star passed away on Wednesday (11.02.26), aged 48, after being diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August 2023, and Reese has taken to social media to share her reaction, with the actress admitting to feeling "devastated".