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Katie Holmes is among the former castmates mourning actor James Van Der Beek following his death at age 48, sharing a heartfelt tribute as colleagues from Dawson's Creek reflected on his legacy and career.
Van Der Beek's family confirmed he died on February 11 after a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. In a statement posted on his social media account, they wrote, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning," adding that he faced his final days "with courage, faith, and grace." The message also requested privacy as loved ones grieve the loss of a husband, father, son, brother and friend.
Holmes, who starred alongside him on the teen drama from 1998 to 2003, shared a handwritten message online describing the loss as difficult to process. She wrote, "James, thank you. To share a space with your imagination is sacred, breathing the same air in the land of make believe and trusting that each other's hearts are safe in their expression."
Reflecting on their shared experiences, she continued, "These are some of the memories, along with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs, adventures of a unique youth." Holmes described qualities she associated with her
former colleague, including "compassion, bravery, selflessness and strength," and noted his devotion to family, writing that he lived with "an appreciation for life with the integrity that life is art, creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children — the journey of a hero."
In a caption accompanying her message, she added, "This is a lot to process... I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James' journey. He is beloved," while offering support to his wife Kimberly and their children, writing, "Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children."
Other cast members also paid tribute. Busy Philipps described him as "one in a billion" and wrote that her "heart is deeply hurting," expressing particular concern for his family. Mary-Margaret Humes remembered him as a "gracious warrior" who faced illness with strength and dignity.
Van Der Beek portrayed aspiring filmmaker Dawson Leery on Dawson's Creek, appearing alongside Holmes, Joshua Jackson and Michelle Williams. The series aired for six seasons and became a defining coming-of-age drama of its era. In 2025, much of the cast reunited for a charity reading of the pilot episode supporting cancer-related initiatives. Although unable to attend, Van Der Beek sent a recorded message thanking supporters, telling them, "You are the best fans in the world."
Tributes continue to emerge from colleagues and fans, reflecting on the actor's work, personal relationships and enduring presence within the television community.
