The actor was best known for his role as Dawson Leery on the hit TV series Dawson’s Creek and was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2023.

American actor James Van Der Beek has died at the age of 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer.
According to the BBC, Van Der Beek was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023 but only publicly revealed his stage 3 diagnosis in 2024.
“I’ve been dealing with this pretty much in secret for a while, and in the past I’ve found it helpful and cathartic to share things publicly,” Van Der Beek told PEOPLE in an exclusive 2024 interview.
His family confirmed his passing in a statement shared on social media on Wednesday, 11 February 2026.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. 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. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend,” the statement read.
Van Der Beek was best known for his role as Dawson Leery in the hit 1998 American television series Dawson’s Creek in which he starred alongside actors Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson and Michelle Williams.
He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah.
According to a GoFundMe set up by the star’s family on Wednesday, the cost of his cancer treatment has left the family facing financial strain.
The GoFundMe, titled Support for James Van Der Beek’s Family, has already raised 88% of its $1.3 million target, with $1,134,140 (approximately R18 million) in donations at the time of publishing.
The funds will help cover the family’s living expenses, bills, and support the children’s education.
“Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives,” the donation page reads.
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