James Van Der Beek started his Hollywood career at a young age, finding a way to remain a relevant star in the entertainment industry until his untimely death.
Van Der Beek was best known for his leading role on Dawson’s Creek, where he starred as the titular character for all six seasons. The show featured a star-studded cast of Hollywood’s most prominent stars, including Joshua Jackson, Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams and more.
One year after landing his breakout role in the teen drama, Van Der Beek starred in the film Varsity Blues alongside Jon Voight, Paul Walker, Ron Lester, Scott Caan and more. Throughout his career, Van Der Beek has had countless memorable roles in TV and film, including Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, CSI Cyber, Overcompensating and more.
Van Der Beek revealed in November 2024 that he was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer. Two years later, the actor died at age 48. Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children: daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia and Gwendolyn and sons Joshua and Jeremiah.
Keep scrolling for a look back on the actor’s life:
1998
James Van Der Beek secured his breakout role in Dawson’s Creek as the titular character. He appeared on all six seasons of the drama until it came to an end in 2003.
1999
While starring on Dawson’s Creek, James Van Der Beek landed a role in the hit film Varsity Blues. His performance in the sports film earned him a Teen Choice Award.
2001
James Van Der Beek played Ranger Lincoln Rogers Dunnison in the film Texas Rangers. He starred in the Western movie alongside Ashton Kutcher, Usher, Dylan McDermott and more.
2003
James Van Der Beek tied the knot with first wife, Heather McComb. The pair split six years later.
2010
After finalizing his divorce from Heather McComb, James Van Der Beek wed Kimberly Van Der Beek.
2012
James Van Der Beek played a fictionalized version of himself in Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23. He starred in the comedy alongside Krysten Ritter, Eric André, Dreama Walker, Liza Lapira and Michael Blaiklock. The show ran for two seasons.
2015
After Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23 ended in 2014, James Van Der Beek returned to TV screens starring in CSI Cyber. The CSI spinoff starred Patrqicia Arquette, Ted Danson, Peter MacNicol, Shad Moss, Charley Koontz and Hayley Kiyoko. It was canceled after two seasons.
2018
James Van Der Beek was a member of the main Pose cast during its inaugural season. He played kingpin boss Matt Bromley.
2019
James Van Der Beek competed on Dancing With the Stars season 28, partnered with Emma Slater. While he was considered a frontrunner throughout the competition, the actor was eliminated during the semifinals.
2024
James Van Der Beek revealed that he was diagnosed with cancer after undergoing a colonoscopy the previous year.
“I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he said in an interview with People, noting that his cancer was at stage 3.
2025
Amid his cancer battle, James Van Der Beek enjoyed a guest role in the series Overcompensating and competed on The Masked Singer season 13 as the Griffin.
2026
James Van Der Beek died on February 11 at age 48 following his battle with cancer.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” read a statement shared via the actor’s Instagram. “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.”
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