James Van Der Beek, 'Dawson's Creek' Star Dead at 48 - Details

From his final Instagram post to the emotional family statement and divided reaction to a fundraiser, here is everything to know — and the final photos waiting at the end.

James Van Der Beek, best known for his breakout role on "Dawson's Creek," has died at the age of 48 following a two-year battle with colorectal cancer. The actor's family confirmed that he passed away peacefully on the morning of February 12, 2026.

In a statement shared on Instagram, his loved ones announced, "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 continued.

In the hours following the announcement, a GoFundMe campaign was launched with a starting goal of $500,000 — approximately £390,000 — to support his family.

The campaign subsequently raised more than $100,000 — approximately £79,000 — within an hour of news breaking that the actor had died.

His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared the link on her Instagram Stories, writing, "My friends created this link to support me and our children during this time. With gratitude and a broken heart."

Elsewhere, the fundraising page stated, "Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children's education."

The appeal prompted divided reactions online, as one person commented, "This is so sad. His family asking for 500k is disgusting." Another typed, "Horrible news, RIP, but asking for a half a million in donations?!?"

A third asked, "Am I the only one who doesn't agree with the GoFund Me? Does his wife not work?" However, others defended the family and paid tribute to the late actor.

One message read, "He was always such a gentleman. A real rare gem in Hollywood. He fought SO HARD. Your fight has now ended James. Now may you rest easy in your eternal Home where there is no sickness."

"Where there is no pain. Where you are whole & healthy again. Just know you were an inspiration to so many, especially for those of us who are in our own battles with being sick. 🕊 🙏 ❤️," the netizen added.

Another shared, "This is so sad to hear. He's one far to soon [sic[. My deepest condolences to his wife, children, parents, siblings, extended family & friends. Thinking of you."

A further tribute stated, "His poor family. It's so not fair for them. RIP and somehow I hope his family get through this okay."

Van Der Beek first disclosed his diagnosis in November 2024, revealing that he had been battling colorectal cancer. What followed was a candid and highly visible health journey.

He frequently updated supporters on social media and spoke openly about treatment, resilience, and perspective. In 2024, he told People he was navigating the ordeal with the "support of my incredible family."

However, as his condition progressed, he significantly reduced his workload, prioritising time at home and focusing on his health. His final Instagram post, shared on January 25, 2026, showed him wishing his daughter and father a happy birthday.

The actor appeared noticeably slimmer but composed, continuing the openness that had defined his public approach to illness.

Van Der Beek is survived by his wife and their six children — daughters Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, nine, and Gwendolyn, seven, and sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, four.

The family had relocated from Los Angeles to Austin, Texas, in 2020, settling on a ranch in search of a quieter and more grounded lifestyle.

But long before his illness, Van Der Beek became one of the defining faces of late '90s television. Cast at just 20 years old, he led "Dawson's Creek" for six seasons between 1998 and 2003 on the WB Network. The series also helped launch the careers of Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, and Joshua Jackson.

Reflecting on the impact of sudden fame, the late star admitted in 2024, "Getting recognized is something that took me a long time. I had a big learning curve on it."

Despite the challenges, he often expressed gratitude for the series and maintained close ties with his former castmates. In fact, in August 2025, it was announced that they would reunite for a one-night-only live reading of the pilot episode.

The event was intended to raise funds for the nonprofit F Cancer and to support Van Der Beek during treatment. Sadly, days before it was due to take place, he shared that illness had forced him to withdraw.

The beloved actor's death brings to a close a two-year fight that he chose to face publicly and with notable candour. For many, James Van Der Beek remained inseparable from a generation-defining drama, even as his later years were shaped by family life, reflection, and resilience.