Dawson's Creek Cast Honors James Van Der Beek

Five months prior to his passing, the cast of the beloved teen drama Dawson's Creek came together for a significant charity event. This reunion aimed to raise crucial funds for James Van Der Beek and the nonprofit organization F Cancer. During the special one-night performance, the stars of the show engaged in a live reading of the pilot episode.

Although James Van Der Beek could not be present for the event due to illness, he remained an integral part of the evening. He contributed a pre-recorded video message, expressing his gratitude to everyone in attendance, including the cast, crew, donors, and especially the fans. His children also made a touching appearance onstage with the cast, adding a personal and emotional dimension to the event.

The reunion also featured a surprise video message from director Steven Spielberg, a significant figure in Van Der Beek's character's narrative. Following the event, cast members like Katie Holmes and Busy Philipps took to social media to share their experiences, emphasizing the love and support for Van Der Beek and his family during this challenging time. Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48 after a prolonged battle with colorectal cancer.