Dawson has lost its leading man. More than a year after announcing his colorectal cancer, James Van Der Beek passed away this Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Star of the iconic series of the 1990s and early 2000s, he passed away at the age of 48 after a long battle with the disease, his wife announced on Instagram.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He faced his final days with courage, faith, and dignity,” Kimberly Van Der Beek stated. Since then, tributes have been pouring in, including from his co-stars. “It’s hard to process,” Katie Holmes wrote on Instagram, sharing a handwritten letter. “I am so grateful to have shared a moment in James’ journey. He is loved.”
Mary-Margaret Humes, who played his mother in the generational series, also posted a message in tribute to the actor. “James, my valiant warrior, you fought a fierce battle against all odds with quiet strength and dignity,” she wrote. “I will always love and admire you for that. Our last conversations, just a few days ago, will forever be etched in my heart.”
James Van Der Beek also left his mark on the public’s memory. After the success of Dawson, which aired between 1998 and 2003, his sudden fame opened doors to cinema. Here are six works from his filmography to watch and rewatch on streaming platforms.
“Dawson”
A must-watch is the phenomenon series created by Kevin Williamson (Scream, I Know What You Did Last Summer), which captivated several generations of viewers and offered first roles to future stars like James Van Der Beek, Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, and Joshua Jackson. Through its six seasons depicting the lives of teenagers in the fictional town of Capeside, the series marked viewers between 1998 and 2003. To pay tribute to its leading actor, the TF1 Séries Films channel is broadcasting the entire first season of Dawson this Thursday, February 12, starting at 9:10 PM. The first season, consisting of thirteen episodes, is also available on TF1+.
First season available on TF1+.
“The Rules of Attraction”
For one of his most striking roles, a departure from his smoother image in the series that made him famous, James Van Der Beek plays Sean Bateman (younger brother of Patrick Bateman from American Psycho), a Camden College student known as a ladies’ man. But the core of Sean and his classmates’ lives doesn’t take place during classes. At the heart of a world of parties and debauchery, inspired by Bret Easton Ellis’s novel, multiple loves and complex relationships unfold.
Available on Prime Video, Apple TV Store, and Canal VOD.
“American Boys”
In West Canaan, Texas, the local high school football team reigns supreme. But disaster strikes when Lance Harbor, one of the Coyotes’ most talented players, is forced to finish the season due to an injury. The team must replace him with a less skilled player, Jonathan Moxon (James Van Der Beek). Joining the team, Mox clashes with the inflexible coach Kilmer, who reproaches him for his indiscipline and nonchalance.
Available on Apple TV and Prime Video.
“Mrs. Miracle” (or “The Happiest Gift”)
A widowed father, Seth Webster, struggles to raise his two mischievous young sons alone. He seeks a babysitter who will stay despite the children’s antics. Then, a recent governess, Mrs. Milak, mysteriously appears at the door. Her arrival will change the course of the family’s life and allow Seth to find love again.
Available for free on TF1+.
“Texas Rangers: The Revenge of the Justiciers”
In 1875, in Texas, in a state where justice is often absent, Leander McNelly is designated by terrified residents to enforce the law as the head of a group of courageous men. Their mission is to protect women, children, and others in need. Together, these first Texas Rangers intend to end the tyranny of John King Fisher and his accomplices.
Available on Prime Video.
Read also: Death of actor James Van Der Beek: More than one million euros raised for his family in a few hours
“Last Days of Summer”
After escaping from prison, Frank, convicted of murder, takes refuge with Adele and forces her to hide him. Adele is raising her son Henry alone. Quickly, the relationship between the young woman and her captor evolves: over four days, they will reveal heavy secrets and relearn to love…
Available on Paramount+.
