Actor James Van Der Beek, best known for his role in the TV series "Dawson's Creek," has died after a battle with colon cancer. He was 48 years old.
His wife Kimberly Van Der Beek confirmed the sad news on social media.
"Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He faced his final days with courage, faith and dignity. There is much to share about his wishes, love for humanity and the sanctity of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for privacy as we mourn the loss of our beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend," she wrote.
He was diagnosed with cancer in 2023 and publicly announced his diagnosis in 2024. At the time, he said he had reason for optimism.
The actor was born on March 8, 1977, and grew up in Connecticut. As a boy, he acted in school plays and begged his parents to let him go to New York to audition.
He began acting on stage as a teenager. After landing the role of Dawson Leery on Dawson's Creek, Van Der Beek dropped out of Drew University in New Jersey.
The series "Dawson's Creek," which also starred Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams and Joshua Jackson, began airing in 1998 and was a huge success.
