Yes — James Van Der Beek has passed away. The actor, best known for playing Dawson Leery on the ’90s hit teen drama Dawson’s Creek, died on 11 February 2026 at the age of 48.
Here’s what’s known from multiple credible news reports:
- His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed his death in an emotional social-media statement, saying he “passed peacefully this morning.”
- Van Der Beek had been publicly battling stage-3 colorectal cancer, revealing his diagnosis in 2024 and using his platform to encourage early screening and support.
- He leaves behind his wife and their six children.
