Van Der Beek
James Van Der Beek passed away at 48
James Van Der Beek / Kimberly Van Der Beek /

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Last Updated
2/21/2026
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The Breakdown 100

  • Beloved actor James Van Der Beek, best known for his iconic role in "Dawson's Creek," passed away at the age of 48 after a courageous battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, which he made public in late 2024.
  • His wife, Kimberly, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, celebrating his legacy and noting that he met his final days with incredible courage, faith, and grace.
  • As the family's financial hardship grew due to mounting medical bills, a GoFundMe campaign was launched, quickly surpassing $1 million, with generous donations pouring in from friends and well-known figures like Steven Spielberg.
  • The outpouring of love and tributes from fans and former co-stars highlighted the profound impact he had on the entertainment industry, with heartfelt messages from co-stars like Katie Holmes and Sarah Michelle Gellar echoing across social media.
  • Friends and family remembered Van Der Beek not just for his talent, but for his warmth and humor, often reflecting on his journey from a teenage heartthrob to a relatable and inspiring figure.
  • His passing sparked conversations about the realities of living with cancer, emphasizing the importance of support for families facing similar battles, and the enduring connection he forged with audiences throughout his career.

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James Van Der Beek / Kimberly Van Der Beek / Steven Spielberg / Katie Holmes / Sarah Michelle Gellar / Alfonso Ribeiro / Chad Michael Murray / Jennifer Garner / Busy Philipps / Emma Slater / Stacy Keibler / GoFundMe /

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