James Van Der Beek has died at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek, beloved actor from “Dawson’s Creek,” He died. He was 48 years old.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning,” a statement said. Via the actor’s Instagram account Read Wednesday.
“He spent his final days with courage, faith and grace. There is so much to share regarding his wishes, his love for humanity and the sanctity of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we mourn our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
Actor and Father of six It was quietly Fighting the third stage of colorectal cancer Since August 2023.
However, in November 2024, he told People magazine that was it He was forced to reveal his diagnosis After learning that “a tabloid newspaper was going to run the news.”
“I have been dealing with this privately until now, receiving treatment and managing my overall health with more focus than ever before,” Van Der Beek added in a statement to the magazine at the time.
“I’m in a good place and feeling strong. This is just the beginning. I’ll tell you more when I’m ready.”
Colorectal cancer — also known as colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where it starts — has a five-year survival rate of 64 percent but varies by stage. According to medical experts.
Shortly after speaking about his health struggles, Van Der Beek put on a brave face Attend the red carpet premiere From Toby “Marginalization: QB and Me.”
However, he soon admitted that cancer treatment had put a financial strain on his family and family She began selling autographed “Varsity Blues” merchandise To help fund his care.
Throughout his journey, Van Der Beek He leaned over his wifeKimberly Van Der Beek — who shared Olivia, 14, Joshua, 13, Annabelle, 11, Emilia, 8, Gwendolyn, 6, and Jeremiah, 3 — for support.
In March, on his forty-eighth birthday, He admitted that he “could no longer be a useful husband.” to his wife” and “He could no longer be a father who could pick up his children and put them down and be there for them.”
A few months later, James raised concern when he said It leaked A previously scheduled Dawson’s Creek reunion due to dealing with two stomach viruses amid his battle with cancer.
However, he surprised the audience with it Physically appearing at the event.
“I can’t believe I’m not there,” the TV star told attendees in New York City. “I can’t believe I can’t see the beautiful cast in person.”
James rose to fame in the late ’90s as the titular character, Dawson Leery, in “Dawson’s Creek” alongside co-stars Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, Michelle Williams, Busy Phillips and others.
He then went on to star in films such as “Varsity Blues” and “The Rules of Engagement,” and appeared in more than 60 film and television projects over the course of his career.
