Never before had the entertainment industry experienced such a heavy blow. At only 48 years old, James Van Der Beek lost his month-long battle with colorectal cancer. Here’s how the cast of Dawson’s Creek honored him in a truly touching farewell. They met up at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City as part of their Class Reunion event on September 22, 2025. The reunion brought back together the cherished series with contagious excitement. It sought to generate financial support for Van Der Beek’s family as well as the nonprofit F Cancer.
The event was a bittersweet occasion. Van Der Beek’s father was in attendance, along with his sister Kimberly, her family and close friends. They made palpable the deep connections that developed during all the years of filming. It documented the extraordinary effect Van Der Beek had on every life he touched.
Van Der Beek found himself unable to join in on the celebrations due to health issues. He participated by sending his support via pre-recorded video message. In it, he shared his deeply moving gratitude for the homecoming and the support he felt back from his fellow classmates.
“I have been looking forward to this night for months and months and months ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she would put it together. I can’t believe I’m not there,” – James Van Der Beek
The event featured notable cast members including Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, Busy Philipps, and others who performed a live reading of the iconic pilot episode. Lin-Manuel Miranda took on the titular role during the live presentation, but put his own energetic and whimsical spin on a well-known figure.
Here’s what honorary chair Katie Holmes had to say about the evening’s importance. She highlighted the way community support has surrounded Van Der Beek throughout his illness.
“James, you got this. We got you. To everyone who supported us from the beginning and who continue to support James and his beautiful family, we thank you.” – Katie Holmes
Van Der Beek’s journey with cancer started making headlines in November 2024 when he revealed that he had been diagnosed. He would later explain that he’d moved up his announcement after finding out that tabloid media was going to scoop him on the story.
At the family’s reunion, Kimberly Van Der Beek took a moment to deliver some heartbreaking news. In beautiful, poignant language, she announced the death of her brother.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” – Kimberly Van Der Beek
She went on to talk about his last days, his bravery and fight with the disease.
“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.” – Kimberly Van Der Beek
As actress Busy Philipps articulated from the floor, the weight of the moment was emotionally intense. She smiled when she realized just how difficult it was for everyone without their best bud around.
“Tonight was really incredible and very special, and, obviously, James not being able to get there was heartbreaking for a million different reasons,” – Busy Philipps
Since then, the reunion has but mostly only served to rehash waves of nostalgia for the beloved show. It highlighted the close friendships and steadfast support that existed between cast members. The funds raised during this heartfelt gathering are expected to provide assistance to Van Der Beek’s family as they navigate life after his passing.
