Home / Arts and Entertainment / Dawson's Creek Star's Brave Cancer Fight Ends
Dawson's Creek Star's Brave Cancer Fight Ends
12 Feb
Summary
- James Van Der Beek passed away at 48 after a cancer battle.
- His stunt double noted he seemed healthy and in remission.
- He prioritized family, bringing his six children to set.

James Van Der Beek, beloved for his role in Dawson's Creek, has passed away at the age of 48 following a two-year battle with colorectal cancer. His wife shared the news, describing his courageous final days.
During filming for his last movie, 'The Gates,' which concluded in October 2024, his stunt double, Trenton Rostedt, noted that Van Der Beek showed no outward signs of illness. Rostedt mentioned that Van Der Beek had become leaner, attributed to a new diet, and appeared to be in remission.
Van Der Beek, who publicly disclosed his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024, had attended a premiere in 2025 appearing healthy. He prioritized his family, bringing his six children to set during filming to minimize time away from them.
Co-stars, including Katie Holmes, have shared heartfelt tributes. Van Der Beek's family is currently raising funds on GoFundMe to cover his medical expenses. The horror film 'The Gates' is slated for release on March 13, 2026.




