James Van Der Beek — the actor best known for playing Dawson Leery on the hit television series Dawson’s Creek — has died at the age of 48, according to multiple major news outlets, including CNN and People Magazine.

The news has shocked fans worldwide and triggered a surge of searches such as “did James Van Der Beek really die,” “how did James Vanderbeek die,” “James Van Der Beek cause of death,” and “what happened to James Van Der Beek.”

✔ Yes — James Van Der Beek has died
✔ Reports are confirmed by top national news organizations
James Van Der Beek Cause of Death
According to reports, James David Van Der Beek passed away following complications related to stage 3 colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer.

The actor had been open in recent years about his cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatment. Despite aggressive care, his condition worsened. His family confirmed that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

This confirmation puts an end to online speculation and false questions such as:

Did James Van Der Beek pass?
Did James Vanderbeek die?
How did James Van Der Beek pass away?
James Van Der Beek, Dawson’s Creek actor, dies at 48 after colorectal cancer battle James Van Der Beek, star of Dawson’s Creek, who died at age 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer.

What Kind of Cancer Did James Van Der Beek Have?
James Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, a serious form of cancer that affects the colon or rectum.

Common colorectal / colon cancer symptoms include:
Persistent changes in bowel habits
Blood in the stool
Abdominal pain or cramping
Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
Health experts stress that early detection is critical, especially for adults over 50.

Searches such as “colon cancer symptoms,” “colorectal cancer symptoms,” and “how did James Van Der Beek get diagnosed” spiked following the news.

Career: From Dawson’s Creek to Hollywood Fame
James Van Der Beek rose to international fame in the late 1990s as Dawson Leery, the emotional heart of Dawson’s Creek. The show became a cultural phenomenon and made Van Der Beek a household name.

He later starred in films such as Varsity Blues, as well as numerous movies and TV shows, including comedies, dramas, and reality television.

He also appeared on Dancing With the Stars (DWTS), introducing himself to a new generation of fans.

The Dawson’s Creek cast, including Joshua Jackson and Michelle Williams, expressed deep sadness following the news.

Family: Wife, Kids, and Personal Life
James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly Brook, and their six children. Searches such as “James Van Der Beek wife,” “James Vanderbeek kids,” and “James Van Der Beek family” surged after his death.

He was previously married to Heather McComb and famously dated Stacy Keibler, which continues to drive related searches like “Stacy Keibler James Van Der Beek.”

James Van Der Beek Net Worth
At the time of his death, James Van Der Beek’s net worth was estimated to be in the multi-million-dollar range, accumulated through decades of television, film, and endorsement work.

Despite online rumors, there is no confirmed James Van Der Beek GoFundMe related to his death. Any claims suggesting otherwise are misinformation.

Did James Van Der Beek Really Die? (FAQ)
Did James Van Der Beek really die?
✔ Yes. His death has been confirmed by CNN and People Magazine.

How did James Vanderbeek die?
✔ Complications related to stage 3 colorectal (colon) cancer.

What did James Van Der Beek die from?
✔ Colorectal cancer.

Is Dawson from Dawson’s Creek dead?
✔ Yes. Actor James Van Der Beek, who played Dawson Leery, has died.

Legacy
James Van Der Beek leaves behind a lasting legacy in television history. For millions, he will always be Dawson — a symbol of 1990s television and emotional storytelling.

His death marks the loss of a familiar face and a reminder of the importance of cancer awareness and early screening.