How old was James Van Der Beek when he died in February 2026?

James Van Der Beek, the actor widely recognized for his starring role as Dawson Leery in the popular 1990s and early 2000s television series "Dawson's Creek," passed away in February 2026 at the age of 48. Born on March 8, 1977, Van Der Beek would have celebrated his 49th birthday just a few weeks after his death. His passing on February 11, 2026, meant he was still 48 years old, having not yet reached his next birth anniversary.

The actor's death followed a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, a diagnosis he made public in November 2024. Throughout his struggle, Van Der Beek used his platform to raise awareness about the disease. In the months leading up to his death, he even auctioned off memorabilia from his iconic roles, including items from "Dawson's Creek," to help cover the costs associated with his cancer treatment. His transparency and advocacy during his illness left a lasting impact, turning a personal challenge into a public effort to inform and support others.

Beyond "Dawson's Creek," Van Der Beek had a diverse career in film and television. He starred in the hit 1999 film "Varsity Blues" and later gained critical acclaim for playing a fictionalized version of himself in the sitcom "Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23." He also took on roles in crime dramas like "CSI: Cyber" and the FX series "Pose." His career spanned over three decades, showcasing his range and ability to transition from a teen idol to a respected working actor.