James van der Beek, widely recognized for his role as Dawson Leary in the popular television series ‘Dawson’s Creek,’ has died at the age of 48. His family shared the tragic news in a heartfelt message on Instagram, revealing that he passed away peacefully in the early hours. Van der Beek had been struggling with cancer for some time, and his family has requested privacy as they mourn his loss.

Throughout his career, van der Beek appeared in various television series and films, however, he gained significant fame for his portrayal of Dawson, which made him a household name during the late 1990s and early 2000s. In addition to ‘Dawson’s Creek,’ he had notable roles in series such as ‘Criminal Minds’ and ‘How I Met Your Mother,’ contributing to his reputation as a versatile actor in the television industry.

James van der Beek leaves behind his wife and six children, highlighting the personal loss felt not only by his family but also by fans around the world. As the entertainment community and viewers mourn his passing, the legacy of his work continues to resonate, reminding many of the impact he had on television and the joy he brought to countless fans during his career.