James Van Der Beek first captured hearts as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, becoming one of the defining teen stars of the late 1990s. Yet behind the fame was a man whose real priorities were far from Hollywood’s spotlight. After his early success and a first marriage that later ended amicably, Van Der Beek found lasting happiness with his wife Kimberly, with whom he built a loving family of six children. Fatherhood became central to his life, especially after the couple endured painful pregnancy losses before welcoming more children. Even as his career continued with new roles and public appearances, he often spoke about gratitude, personal growth, and the importance of being present for his family, celebrating milestones such as receiving an honorary degree and sharing meaningful family experiences.

In 2024, Van Der Beek publicly revealed he was battling colorectal cancer, choosing to face the illness while continuing to work and advocate for cancer awareness. Despite health challenges, he remained focused on creating memories with his loved ones, speaking openly about the value of time and connection. On February 11, 2026, his family announced that he passed away peacefully at age 48, remembering him as a devoted husband, father, and friend who met his final days with courage and faith. For many fans he will always remain a beloved TV icon, but for those closest to him, his legacy lies in the love, resilience, and humanity he showed far beyond the screen.