Los Angeles, Feb. 12 -- James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson's Creek, has died at the age of 48, reports Variety.
Van Der Beek had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023 and publicly shared his diagnosis in 2024. His family confirmed his passing in a statement on Instagram on Thursday, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."Born in Connecticut, Van Der Beek began acting Off-Broadway while s...