BREAKING NEWSCancer-Stricken James Van Der Beek Looked Gaunt in Final Photo Shared by Wife Kimberly 2 Months Before His Sad Death
James Van Der Beer died on February 11 after a long battle with colorectal cancer.
Feb. 11 2026, Published 3:14 p.m. ET
James Van Der Beek looked thin and gaunt in one of his final photos his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared of him just two months before his tragic death.
The Dawson's Creek alum died on February 11 at the age of 48 after suffering with colorectal cancer.
Kimberly and James Van Der Beek shared six children together.
Kimberly posted the sweet snap of the two hugging on Christmas Day 2025 on Instagram. "Me and my bae @vanderjames ❤️🌹❤️," she sweetly penned in the caption at the time.
“You two are beautiful and inspiring. My husband is battling v similar battle. May they both win the fight & us who love them so,” a fan gushed at the time.
"Your family is lovely and so positive. Sending healing vibes," another person commented. "Thinking of you both and your family. Praying the New Year will bring healing and strength. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!!!" one penned.
James Van Der Beek Died at the Age of 48
The 'Dawson's Creek' star announced he had cancer in November 2024.
James' passing was announced on Wednesday after a rep for the Travis County Medical Examiner's Office in Austin, Texas, confirmed the death at 6:44 a.m.
Kimberly — who shared six children with the late actor — also shared news of his death today. Alongside a photo of the Varsity Blues star, she wrote: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace."
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The Actor Was Diagnosed With Colorectal Cancer in 2023
James Van Der Beek was diagnosed with his illness in August 2023.
She went on: "There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."
James was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in August 2023, however, he did not publicize his illness until November 2024.
"I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family," he said at the time in a statement.
James Van Der Beek Sold Off Some of His Memorabilia to Pay for Treatment
The actor auctioned off some of his costumes to help pay for his cancer treatment.
"There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good," he went on. In November 2025, the Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 actor decided to auction off some of his film memorabilia to help pay for his treatment.
One collector's item he sold was a black metal chain necklace worn by his character Dawson Leery in Dawson's Creek, as well as other costumes from his iconic Hollywood roles.
"I've been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it's clear that the time is now," he said last year.
