Actor James Van Der Beek, famously known for his role in “Dawson’s Creek,” has passed away at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer.

Van Der Beek first announced he was facing this health challenge in November 2024. Although he was absent from a “Dawson’s Creek” reunion event last September, the official cause of his death was not disclosed to the public.

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” read a statement shared Wednesday on Van Der Beek’s Instagram page. “He met his final days with courage, faith and grace.”

Beyond his iconic role in the beloved TV series, Van Der Beek’s career included notable performances in films like “Scary Movie,” “Varsity Blues,” and “The Rules of Attraction.” Despite these accomplishments, he remained best known for his part in the pivotal television series of the early 2000s.

A statement shared on social media expressed, “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.”