James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his starring role in the beloved teen drama “Dawson’s Creek,” has died at the age of 48 following a private battle with colorectal cancer, his family announced in a statement.

Van Der Beek’s death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among the legions of fans who grew up watching him portray Dawson Leery, the sensitive, film-obsessed teenager at the heart of the groundbreaking series that defined a generation of television in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The family’s statement confirmed that the actor had been privately fighting colorectal cancer, though details about the timeline of his diagnosis and treatment were not disclosed. Van Der Beek had largely kept his health struggles out of the public eye, choosing to maintain his privacy during his illness.

“Dawson’s Creek,” which aired from 1998 to 2003, launched Van Der Beek to stardom and became a cultural phenomenon that explored the complexities of adolescence with unprecedented depth and sophistication for its time. His portrayal of the earnest, ambitious Dawson made him a household name and helped establish the template for teen dramas that followed.

Beyond “Dawson’s Creek,” Van Der Beek maintained an active career in film and television, appearing in productions including “Varsity Blues,” “The Rules of Attraction,” and more recently in comedic roles that showcased his willingness to play against type, including a memorable recurring role on “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23” where he played a satirical version of himself.

The actor was also known for his advocacy work and openness about personal challenges, including his experiences with miscarriage and loss alongside his wife. He leaves behind his wife and six children, who were frequently featured in his social media posts celebrating family life.

Tributes have poured in from former co-stars, colleagues, and fans mourning the loss of an actor whose work touched millions. Many have recalled Van Der Beek’s kindness, professionalism, and the genuine warmth he brought to his interactions both on and off screen.

Van Der Beek’s death at such a young age has also drawn attention to colorectal cancer, which has been increasingly affecting younger adults in recent years. Health advocates have used the tragic news to emphasize the importance of early screening and awareness of symptoms, even among those below traditional screening ages.

The entertainment industry has lost a talented performer whose work helped define an era of television and whose legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched through his art.