The entertainment world is mourning the loss of James Van Der Beek, who passed away on February 11, 2026. He was 48 years old. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed the news in a heartbreaking statement, sharing that he passed peacefully. He met his final days with “courage, faith, and grace” while surrounded by his family.
Van Der Beek rose to superstardom in the late 1990s as the face of a generation. He became a household name playing Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek and leading the football drama Varsity Blues. While these roles defined his early career, he eventually built a significant and diverse legacy within the Disney family.
A Beloved Voice For Disney Families
To a younger generation, Van Der Beek was known primarily as a “Disney Dad.” From 2017 to 2021, he voiced Boris Hauntley in the hit Disney Junior series Vampirina. He also provided the voice for Pazu in the Disney-produced English dub of the Studio Ghibli classic Castle in the Sky, showcasing his heart for family-friendly storytelling.
The actor also had a strong presence on the Disney-owned network, ABC. He famously played a heightened version of himself in the sitcom Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23. Later, in 2019, he became a fan favorite on Dancing with the Stars, where he moved viewers with his vulnerability during a very personal competition run.
A Courageous Health Battle
In November 2024, Van Der Beek publicly revealed his diagnosis of Stage 3 colorectal cancer. He had been privately battling the disease since 2023, staying focused on his “beautiful chaos” of six children. Throughout his treatment, he remained a vocal advocate for health awareness and stayed dedicated to his family until the very end.
James Van Der Beek’s career spanned nearly three decades, leaving an indelible mark from Capeside to Disney Junior. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. His legacy of kindness and talent will continue to inspire fans of all ages across the globe.
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