WILMINGTON, N.C. (WBTV) – The lead actor in a popular TV show filmed in North Carolina died on Wednesday.
A Feb. 11 social media post confirmed that James Van Der Beek — the star of the hit show “Dawson’s Creek” — died.
”He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” the post read. “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.”
Van Der Beek — who was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in late 2024 — was 48 years old.
Six seasons of “Dawson’s Creek” were filmed in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Van Der Beek starred as the show’s namesake and lead character, Dawson Leery.
The 128-episode series was filmed in the Wilmington, N.C. area.
The fictional Dawson’s home on Hewlett’s Creek in Wilmington was put up for sale in October 2025, and was listed for $3.25 million.
“Dawson’s Creek” won multiple awards at the Teen Choice Awards during the late 1990s and early 2000s, and took home others and was recognized with many more nominations in other award competitions.
“Dawson’s Creek” can be streamed on Netflix, Hulu and Disney+.
Also Read: House featured in iconic North Carolina-filmed TV show up for sale
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date: 2026-02-12 18:23:00
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