Katie Holmes Honors Dawson's Creek Co-Star James Van Der Beek After Cancer Battle
Katie Holmes has paid a moving tribute to her Dawson's Creek co-star James Van Der Beek, remembering his bravery and selflessness following his death at age 48. The two actors rose to fame on the hit teen drama that launched in 1998, playing on-off boyfriend and girlfriend Dawson Leery and Joey Potter, alongside Michelle Williams as Jen Lindley and Joshua Jackson as Pacey Witter.
A Heartfelt Handwritten Tribute
Van Der Beek died on Wednesday after being diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2023. Holmes, 47, shared that the news of his passing had been a lot to process but expressed gratitude for having shared in a piece of his journey. In a handwritten tribute posted on Instagram, she recalled their shared laughter, conversations about life, and adventures of a unique youth.
Holmes, who went on to star in films like Batman Begins and shows including Ray Donovan, wrote: Bravery. Compassion. Selflessness. Strength. An appreciation for life and the action taken to live life with the integrity that life is art - creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children - the journey of a hero.
The actress also included a message to Van Der Beek's wife, Kimberly, and his six children, stating: We are here for you always. And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion.
Dawson's Creek Legacy and Co-Star Tributes
Dawson's Creek, which ran from 1998 to 2003, followed a group of high school friends through the highs and lows of their friendships and romances. The show was hugely popular, turning the young actors into household names in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
Busy Philipps, who starred in later series of the show, described Van Der Beek as one in a billion and shared that her heart was deeply hurting. She also promoted a GoFundMe page set up to support the actor's family, which has already raised more than $1 million to help cover medical expenses from his extended fight against cancer.
Mary-Margaret Humes, who played Dawson's mother Gail on the series, shared pictures of the pair together and wrote: Rarely am I at a loss for words … today would be the exception. James, my gracious warrior, you fought a hard battle against all odds with such quiet strength and dignity. I will always love and admire you for that.
Career Beyond Dawson's Creek
James Van Der Beek also starred in the film Varsity Blues, where he played Jonathan Mox Moxon, the backup quarterback of a high school football team. He later played a parody version of himself in the sitcom Don't Trust the B in Apartment 23.
Krysten Ritter, who co-starred with him in that series, described Van Der Beek as a beautiful human inside and out. The actor is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and heartfelt connections with those who worked alongside him.
