'One in a billion': Dawson's Creek stars lead tributes to James Van Der Beek

February 12, 2026

Actor James Van Der Beek has passed away at age 48 following a battle with bowel cancer that he was diagnosed with in late 2023 and publicly disclosed in November 2024. The actor, best known for playing Dawson Leery in the television series Dawson's Creek from 1998 to 2003, has been mourned by numerous co-stars and celebrities who praised his kindness, bravery, and talent. His former castmates Katie Holmes and Busy Philipps led the tributes, with Philipps urging support for Van Der Beek's widow Kimberly and their six children through a fundraising campaign.

Who is affected

James Van Der Beek's widow Kimberly and their six children (ages 4 to 15)
Dawson's Creek co-stars including Katie Holmes, Busy Philipps, Mary-Margaret Humes, Kerr Smith, and Michelle Williams
Co-stars from other projects including Krysten Ritter, Reese Witherspoon, Chad Michael Murray, and Austin Nichols
Close friends Alfonso Ribeiro (godfather to Van Der Beek's daughter Gwen) and Stacy Keibler
Busy Philipps' 2.4 million Instagram followers who were urged to donate
The broader entertainment community and fans

What action is being taken

Busy Philipps is urging her followers to contribute to an online fundraiser
A GoFundMe page is soliciting donations to assist with medical bills and other expenses for Van Der Beek's family (had raised $1.2 million by Thursday morning)
The family is requesting peaceful privacy
Friends and co-stars are posting tributes on social media

Why it matters

This represents a significant loss to the entertainment industry of a beloved actor who became a cultural icon through his role in Dawson's Creek, a defining television show of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Beyond his professional achievements, Van Der Beek's death at a relatively young age from bowel cancer highlights the devastating impact of the disease and leaves behind a young family facing both emotional and financial challenges. The widespread tributes demonstrate how Van Der Beek touched lives not only through his work but through his character, grace in facing illness, and the genuine friendships he cultivated throughout his career.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article beyond the ongoing fundraising campaign and the family's request for privacy.

Read full article from source: BBC