He publicly disclosed his illness and, with determination, sought to raise awareness. His fight ultimately ended in defeat.
American actor James Van Der Beek, best known for Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues, died at age 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer. He was the father of six children.
His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, posted the sad announcement on Instagram.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek peacefully departed this morning,” she wrote. She added that he faced his final days with courage, deep faith and dignity, and asked the public to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn.
The actor first disclosed his diagnosis publicly in November 2024.
Despite a Stage 3 Diagnosis, He Remained Optimistic
Doctors diagnosed him with stage 3 colorectal cancer after a routine colonoscopy in August 2023.
“I have colorectal and rectal cancer. I’ve been handling the diagnosis privately, taking steps to address it with the incredible support of my family. There’s reason for optimism, and I feel good,” he said, noting that the exact duration and stage of his battle were initially unclear.
He first noticed a change in his digestion, initially attributing it to diet and even eliminating coffee. When the issue persisted, he sought medical evaluation.
After waking from anesthesia, the surgeon delivered the diagnosis. He described hearing the word “cancer” as a turning point that altered his life forever. Despite the shock, he resolved to fight, emphasizing the strong backing of his family.
He described his treatment as a “full‑time job,” involving numerous tests, paperwork and coordination with insurers.
One of the hardest aspects for him was telling close relatives. Accustomed to caring for others, he found it especially challenging to disclose the truth to his father, siblings and children.
The wave of support he received reinforced his resolve. He said the diagnosis made him realize how much people truly cared about him.
“I was shocked. But one of the things I was really lucky about was that when I heard the news I thought, ‘This will be the best thing that ever happened to me.’ A quiet voice inside told me I would make life changes I wouldn’t have otherwise, leading to healthier, happier years,” he told NBC.
During his hardest moments, he relied on his wife, Kimberly, who assumed most household responsibilities and became his primary caregiver.
He noted that Kimberly “simply took on the role of caretaker, nurse, and head of the household.”
Early Concerns Turned Into Final Farewell
In September 2025, he withdrew from a live reading of the original Dawson’s Creek cast at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York. He announced his absence the day before the event but appeared via a pre‑recorded video, which left many attendees stunned.
He expressed disappointment at missing the event, saying, “I’d been looking forward to this night for months. I can’t believe I wasn’t there. I can’t believe I didn’t get to see my fellow cast members in person.” His wife and children attended in his place.
Later posts suggested he was recovering, but the reality was different. Two weeks before his death he posted a photo celebrating his father’s and his daughter’s birthdays, writing, “My dad and my daughter share a birthday today….”
He described his father and daughter as “different people sharing a birthday,” and the post reflected his gratitude for family bonds.
Friends and fans praised his openness, kindness and the warmth he brought to every room. One admirer wrote, “You have a gentle heart, a creative spirit, and you make any space more enjoyable.”
James Van Der Beek leaves his wife Kimberly and six children—daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah.
His death arrives as he was slated to appear in upcoming productions, a development that may affect related production schedules and revenue projections for the associated studios.
