Van Der Beek publicly revealed in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer after initially keeping his illness private. He continued working and speaking openly about his experience, including participating in projects intended to raise awareness about cancer and supporting his family through his treatment.
In the months before his death, tributes from former colleagues and fans highlighted the lasting impact he had made both on screen and beyond his most famous role. His Dawson’s Creek legacy remained especially strong, with former cast members reuniting for a charity event in 2025 while Van Der Beek participated through a video message because he was unable to attend in person.
For millions of viewers, James Van Der Beek will always be remembered as Dawson Leery. But his career extended far beyond that single character, spanning television, film, comedy, drama, and stage work.
His passing marks the end of a career that began when he was young and continued across more than three decades. He leaves behind his wife, six children, and a body of work that continues to connect with audiences who grew up watching him.