Key Points
- Michelle Williams honored her late Dawson’s Creek co-star James Van Der Beek at the 32nd Actor Awards.
- Van Der Beek died on February 11, 2026, at age 48, following a battle with colorectal cancer.
- Williams said she is “constantly thinking” about his family and thanked fans for their support.
- A GoFundMe campaign launched after his passing has raised over $2.75 million from more than 51,000 donations.
- Van Der Beek was best known for his role as Dawson Leery in the hit teen drama Dawson’s Creek.
Williams’ Emotional Tribute
At the 32nd Actor Awards (formerly the SAG Awards), Michelle Williams reflected on the loss of her longtime friend and co-star James Van Der Beek.
“I’m thinking about him and I’m thinking about his family constantly,” Williams told Entertainment Tonight. She added: “It’s been such an amazing thing as James’s friend and a friend of the family to see the response in the wake of his passing. I just really want to say thank you to each and every person who contributed to sustaining their life and their children’s lives. It’s an incredibly meaningful thing to witness.”
Van Der Beek’s Battle With Cancer
Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer in 2023, publicly revealing his condition in 2024. Despite treatment, he passed away on February 11, 2026, at age 48. His family announced the news on Instagram.
In late 2025, the actor auctioned off Dawson’s Creek memorabilia to help cover medical expenses. Following his death, friends of the family organized a GoFundMe campaign, which has raised more than $2.75 million to support his wife and children.
Legacy of Dawson’s Creek
Williams and Van Der Beek starred together in the beloved teen drama Dawson’s Creek, which premiered in 1998. Williams played Jen Lindley, while Van Der Beek portrayed Dawson Leery. The cast also included Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Mary Beth Peil.
The series, which followed four close friends navigating adolescence, romance, and heartbreak, averaged 6 million viewers during its run. Today, all six seasons are available to stream on Hulu, Netflix, and other platforms, keeping its legacy alive for new audiences.
What Happens Next?
As tributes continue to pour in, Van Der Beek’s impact on television and his enduring role in Dawson’s Creek remain central to his legacy. For Williams, his memory is tied not only to their shared work but also to the strength of his family and the support they’ve received from fans worldwide.
