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James Van Der Beek, recognized for his role as Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, had been contending with cancer from 2024 until his passing in February 2026, as announced by his family. James was 48 years old.
When the late actor was absent from a live fundraising gala with his former co-stars in 2025, supporters grew increasingly anxious regarding James’ well-being.
“I have been eagerly awaiting this evening for quite some time ever since my angel Michelle Williams mentioned she was organizing it,” James expressed in a surprise pre-recorded message at the September 2025 Dawson’s Creek benefit event in New York City. “I can’t believe I’m not physically there. I am disappointed that I won’t get to see my fellow actors, my wonderful cast face-to-face. … Also, I wish to grace that stage and extend my gratitude to everyone present in the theater for attending tonight. From the actors to the production team to everyone contributing in any way and being so generous, and notably each and every one of you – you are the most devoted fans imaginable.”
Below, Hollywood Life presents a comprehensive overview of James’ fight against cancer.
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What Type of Cancer Did James Van Der Beek Have?
James was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, he announced in November 2024.
“I’ve been privately contending with this diagnosis and have been undertaking actions to address it, with the support of my incredible family,” he revealed to People at the time. “There’s cause for hope, and I’m feeling well.”
The thespian confessed he “always linked cancer with aging and with unhealthy, inactive lifestyles” but came to realize that this isn’t always the reality.
“But my cardiovascular fitness was excellent,” James emphasized. “I endeavored to maintain a nutritious diet — or so I believed at the time. … Subsequently, the gastroenterologist declared — with the utmost gentleness — that it was cancer. I believe I was in a state of disbelief.”
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Is There a Treatment for Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer may be addressed with surgery, provided it’s discovered promptly. Such procedures encompass a polypectomy to extract malignant polyps, a partial colectomy to excise a portion of the colon, radiofrequency ablation — employing heat to eliminate cancerous cells — and chemotherapy, as indicated by the Cleveland Clinic.
James Van Der Beek’s Ailment Before Death
In July 2025, James conveyed in a Today appearance that he was “doing wonderfully,” though it’s “been quite an ordeal.”
“There are countless highs and lows and so many unknowns,” the Varsity Blues personality remarked. “Cancer is – I refer to it as a full-time commitment … It’s a continuous process. It’ll likely be a process for the remainder of my days.”
Two months thereafter, James had to forego a live Dawson’s Creek benefit show at the Richard Rogers Theatre in New York City due to a pair of stomach viruses. Lin-Manuel Miranda served as his stand-in, and James’ spouse and offspring were in attendance on his behalf.
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However, James delighted admirers by materializing virtually to express appreciation to them and his Dawson’s Creek co-stars.
“Thank you for being here. It’s absolutely humbling how much effort you devoted to this evening, and I extend my thanks,” he stated. “I appreciate each and every individual present here.”
That November, James devised a means to gather funds to subsidize his medical care and aid other families grappling with cancer: by auctioning autographed Varsity Blues jerseys, as he revealed in an Instagram video.
In December 2025, James engaged in a discussion with Today‘s Craig Melvin concerning his health experiences. Craig hinted in an Instagram update before the interview’s broadcast that James was a “source of optimism.”
Regrettably, just a couple of months later, James passed away “tranquilly” at his residence surrounded by his loved ones, as they communicated in an Instagram announcement on February 11, 2026.