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Friend's Heartbreak Over Actor's Cancer Battle
11 Feb
Summary
- Actor James Van Der Beek died after fighting colorectal cancer.
- A fundraiser is active for his wife and six children.
- Friends remember him as 'one in a billion' and a dear friend.
Actor James Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, 2026, following a private battle with colorectal cancer. He was pronounced dead at 6:44 a.m. on Wednesday in Travis County. His official Instagram account announced his peaceful passing, noting his courage, faith, and grace in his final days.
Actress Philipps, who met Van Der Beek on the set of Dawson's Creek in 2001, shared a heartfelt tribute. She expressed deep sorrow for his family and friends, calling him 'one in a billion' and a cherished friend. Philipps mentioned a GoFundMe created to support his wife, Kimberly, and their six children.
Van Der Beek had publicly shared his stage 3 diagnosis in November 2024, expressing optimism and a desire to truly live. He had been in a healing phase as of March 2025, believing he could 'see the finish line.' Despite missing a Dawson's Creek reunion in New York City in September 2025 due to illness, he was deeply touched by the support for his fight against cancer.
