The entertainment world is mourning the loss of James Van Der Beek, best known for Dawson’s Creek, who died at 48 after a nearly three-year battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He passed away peacefully on February 11 and is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children.
Van Der Beek had spoken openly about his diagnosis to raise awareness, especially among younger adults. His first symptom was a persistent change in bowel habits — something he initially dismissed. Despite being healthy, active, and having no family history of the disease, a colonoscopy revealed cancer, leaving him in shock.
Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting people under 50 and is now one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in younger adults in the U.S. Risk factors include poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol use, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, and family history.
Doctors stress the importance of early detection and urge people not to ignore symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or persistent bloating.
Van Der Beek’s legacy extends beyond acting — remembered for his courage, advocacy, and openness during his battle with cancer.