James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, has died at age 47 after a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. His wife, Kimberley Van Der Beek, announced the news on Instagram this morning, describing his passing as peaceful and praising his courage and faith.
Diagnosis and Initial Struggle
Van Der Beek publicly revealed his diagnosis in November 2024, describing the difficulty of sharing such personal news. He noted the emotional toll of informing loved ones, stating he had been trying to “be Superman” for his family while privately facing the illness. The actor is survived by his wife and six children: Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, Joshua, and Jeremiah.
Public Support and Health Updates
In September 2025, Van Der Beek withdrew from a Dawson’s Creek reunion event organized to raise awareness for F Cancer, reflecting his deteriorating health at the time. However, by December of the same year, he reported a significant improvement in his condition during an interview with Today, acknowledging the resilience he discovered throughout his treatment. Despite these positive updates, the cancer ultimately proved fatal.
Family’s Request for Privacy
Kimberley Van Der Beek’s statement concluded with a request for privacy as the family grieves. She indicated that further details regarding Van Der Beek’s wishes and legacy would be shared later, emphasizing the importance of respecting their time during this difficult period.
The loss of James Van Der Beek serves as a stark reminder of the impact of colorectal cancer, particularly in younger adults. His passing underscores the need for early detection and ongoing research into effective treatments. The family’s request for privacy should be honored as they navigate this profound loss.
