Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek has died, his heartbroken wife Kimberly announced today. The actor played Dawson Leery in the hit drama, which was required viewing for British teenagers on Sunday mornings in the Nineties and Noughties. No cause for his death at the age of 48 has yet been given, though he has been battling colorectal cancer.

In a statement released on Instagram, Kimberly wrote: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."

James' death is said to have been reported to the Travis County Medical Examiner's Office at 6.44am local time.

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The actor was married first to Heather McComb from 2003 until 2009 and then Kimberly Brook from 2010 until the present day. Together they shared six children - four daughters and two sons called Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.

The couple also suffered five miscarriages with Kimberly saying in 2019: "We wait so long to tell people that we are pregnant so the possibility of miscarriage has decreased. But in the meantime, you’re tired, you need help and you’re going through one of the wildest times of your life.”

The couple left Los Angeles in 2020 to move to Texas, explaining that the switch was accelerated by the Covid lockdowns. He said: "All of that led to some drastic changes in our lives, and dreams, and priorities... and landed us here."

James rose to fame alongside Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson and Michelle Williams in the iconic teen drama Dawson's Creek and later played the FBI agent Elijah Mundo on CSI: Cyber.

He was expected to appear alongside his Dawson's Creek co-stars at a reunion event in September but withdrew a day before over health reasons, saying he was too ill to attend after being diagnosed with “two stomach viruses”.

In 2024 he announced he had colorectal cancer saying in a statement: "I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family. There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good."

The star also explained that he noticed changes in his bowel movements, which is a known symptom of bowel cancer. A test revealed that he had stage three colorectal cancer, and it had spread to his lymph nodes.

He later admitted: "The trickiest thing is there are so many unknowns with cancer. You think, 'How do I fix this? Is this healing me? Is this hurting me? Is this working? Is it coming back?' As someone who likes answers, not knowing is one of the hardest things. I have a lot to live for."

Kimberly tonight launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for "essential living expenses, pay bills and support the children's education." At the time of writing it had raised $85,000 (£62,000) of its $500,000 (£367,000) target.

She wrote: "James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026 leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children.

"Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care.

"In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time. The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.

"Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them."