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MNN Global · February 11, 2026 · 1 min read

James Van Der Beek, Dawson’s Creek star, dies aged 48

What happened: James Van Der Beek, known for roles in Dawson's Creek and Varsity Blues, has died at 48. He was a father of six and featured in popular shows and films from the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Why it matters:

  • Fans and the entertainment industry lose a well-known actor from a beloved era.
  • His passing affects his family, colleagues, and the many who grew up watching his work.

MNN Take: James Van Der Beek was a prominent figure in late 90s and early 2000s television and film, remembered for his contributions to popular culture during that time.

Sources: BBC Entertainment & Arts