James Van Der Beek has died following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, announced his passing on Instagram, saying he died peacefully and faced his final days with “courage, faith, and grace,” while asking for privacy as the family grieves. Van Der Beek, best known for Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues, was diagnosed after a routine colonoscopy in August 2023. He publicly shared his diagnosis in November 2024, saying he was focused on treatment, his health, and his family, and expressed optimism at the time. The actor was open about how shocking the diagnosis was, especially given his active lifestyle, and described cancer as a full-time job that tested him emotionally and physically. He said one of the hardest parts was telling loved ones, particularly his six children, but also spoke movingly about the overwhelming support he received from friends and fans. Van Der Beek made his final public appearance in December, telling Today that he was feeling stronger and more hopeful, calling the experience a life-changing journey. He is survived by Kimberly and their six children.