Home / Arts and Entertainment / Dawson's Daughter Shines at Reunion: James Van Der Beek's Poignant Birthday Tribute
Dawson's Daughter Shines at Reunion: James Van Der Beek's Poignant Birthday Tribute
26 Sep, 2025
Summary
- Daughter Olivia, 15, performed Dawson's Creek theme song at reunion
- Van Der Beek missed event due to health issues, praised daughter's confidence
- Olivia's birthday marks same age as Van Der Beek's character in Dawson's Creek pilot
In September 2025, actor James Van Der Beek marked a significant milestone for his eldest daughter Olivia, who turned 15 years old. Van Der Beek, who is currently battling stage III colon cancer, reflected that Olivia is now the same age his character Dawson was when the iconic TV series Dawson's Creek premiered.
Sharing a video of Olivia's performance at the recent Dawson's Creek reunion, Van Der Beek expressed his pride in watching his daughter confidently take the stage and sing the show's theme song. Though the actor was unable to attend the event due to health issues, he was left in awe of Olivia's poise and talent.
Van Der Beek praised his daughter's growth, noting that she has taken on "big decisions" and "jumped into so many activities" over the past year. The proud father encouraged Olivia to "keep taking big swings" and remain true to herself, assuring her that her most authentic self is one she will come to love.
The Varsity Blues star's heartfelt birthday tribute to his daughter serves as a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the special bond between a parent and child.
