Dawson’s Creek star James van Der Beek filmed his last TV show while he was fighting cancer. On Wednesday, February 11, James’ wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, told fans on Instagram about the sad news of his passing. James filmed his parts for the show in May 2025.
Van Der Beek Collabed With Reese Witherspoon
James can be seen in Elle, a new TV show that is based on the Legally Blonde movies. Reese Witherspoon, the star of the first movie, produced the new show. It was James’ last project before he died at the age of 48.
The show will feature Lexi Minetree as a young Elle Woods and James as Dean Wilson, the mayoral candidate and school district superintendent.
Van Der Beek Family Announces His Tragic Death
James’ fans were heartbroken when they found out he had died after fighting cancer.
His family announced his death on social media 14 months after he first told the world he had stage 3 colorectal cancer.
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“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. 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.”
Van Der Beek Did Not Get Residuals For Dawson’s Creek
James Van Der Beek didn’t make any money from his role as the lead in Dawson’s Creek because of a clause in his contract that said he couldn’t make money from reruns of the show. There was a part of James’s contract that said he couldn’t make money from streaming or reruns.
He said: “I was 20. It was a bad contract. I saw almost nothing from that.” In his tragic last days,, fans and friends started a GoFundMe to help his family with crushing hospital bills so that they wouldn’t lose their home. It has raised over 2 million dollars in just a few days.
When and Where Will James Van Der Beek’s Final TV Show Air?
Elle will premiere on Prime Video this June, and it will be his last project on screen. Fans will love watching the show to see him act one last time.
James Van Der Beek will be missed; he was a genuinely good soul. His co-star from Dawson’s Creek said it perfectly. Katie Holmes shared: “I formed some words with a heavy heart. This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’ journey. He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children. ❤️”
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