James Van Der Beek, the actor who defined a generation as the lead of “Dawson’s Creek,” has died. He was 48.

His wife confirmed the news on Wednesday morning, February 11, 2026, via Instagram. Van Der Beek passed away peacefully after battling Stage 3 colorectal cancer. He first shared this diagnosis publicly in late 2024.

“He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” Kimberly posted. “There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”

The Face of a Generation

Born in Cheshire, Connecticut, in 1977, Van Der Beek’s path to Hollywood began in an untraditional way. After a sports injury at13, he turned his focus to theater. In 1998, he landed what was arguably his defining role: Dawson Leery on “Dawson’s Creek.”

As the film-obsessed teenager in Kevin Williamson’s television show, “Dawson’s Creek,” Van Der Beek became an instant icon. The show was a cultural phenomenon, and Van Der Beek—alongside co-stars Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, and Joshua Jackson—became the face of the WB Network’s golden era.

Beyond the Creek

While many actors struggle to escape the shadow of a career-defining role, Van Der Beek embraced his legacy with grace and humor.

He successfully pivoted to film with the 1999 hit “Varsity Blues,” where his role of Jonathon “Mox” Moxon proved he could carry a blockbuster. “Varsity Blues” was followed by a gritty performance in the 2002 cult classic “The Rules of Attraction.”

Later in his career, he also won over a new generation by playing an exaggerated version of himself in “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23.” Alongside future “Jessica Jones” star, Krysten Ritter, Van Der Beek delivered a hilarious performance, reminding fans and critics alike that he wasn’t above poking fun at himself.

After his 2024 diagnosis, Van Der Beek became a public advocate for cancer awareness. In late 2025, he auctioned off memorabilia from his most famous roles to help fund cancer treatments and raise awareness for early screening.

A Life Centered on Family

In 2020, Van Der Beek moved his family to a 36-acre ranch outside Austin, Texas. He frequently shared glimpses of his life on social media. Here, he navigated the challenges of his illness with bravery.

Van Der Beek’s final public appearance was a surprise video message in September 2025 during a “Dawson’s Creek” reunion charity event in New York. Today, those fans remember him not just as a face on a bedroom poster. He was a man who faced life’s final chapter with the same sincerity that made him a star.

He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah.

Honoring a Legacy: Where to Watch

In tribute to his impact on comedy, film, and television, Pluto TV has launched a curated “Remembering James Van Der Beek” collection. This collection of Van Der Beek’s most iconic roles invites audiences to rediscover his characters that continue to bring joy to viewers today.

The VOD Collection includes:

• The Rules of Attraction
• Jodi Picoult’s Salem Falls
• Texas Rangers
• Eye of the Beast
• Varsity Blues
• Downsizing
• Labor Day

Additionally, Pluto TV will air a tribute marathon starting at 5pm ET / 2pm PT today, featuring “Varsity Blues,” “Texas Rangers,” “Downsizing,” and “The Rules of Attraction.”

You can watch the PlutoTV tribute marathon HERE.