Dawson's Creek Cast Honors James Van Der Beek at Charity Gala

The cast and creator of Dawson's Creek gathered at The Barbara Berlanti Heroes Gala to honor James Van Der Beek, who died of colorectal cancer in February at the age of 48. The event, launched by TV producer Greg Berlanti, raised funds for F Cancer's initiatives.

Joshua Jackson and Dawson's Creek creator Kevin Williamson were visibly moved to tears as they spoke about Van Der Beek's legacy and the impact he had on the show. Williamson, who received the Barbara Berlanti Hero Award, was recognized for his efforts in organizing a September 2025 Dawson's Creek table read to support Van Der Beek following his cancer diagnosis.

Jackson recounted how Williamson not only opened his heart but also his wallet to ensure the cast could honor Van Der Beek and his family during the event. "In the days before we went on stage to do this reading to support James, his health took a turn," Jackson said, his voice breaking. "Kevin opened up not only his heart for making sure that everybody was okay, but also his wallet to make sure that we were able to honor James and honor his family at this event in truly the most amazing way possible."

Williamson, whose own mother died of lung cancer, shared his personal connection to Van Der Beek, who he said "gave voice to my childhood." He described Van Der Beek as "the soul of the show" and reflected on their early working relationship, recalling how Van Der Beek would question certain lines in scripts. "James had a full character arc. He started out as a brat," Williamson quipped, before adding, "He was the ultimate upgrade."

Although Van Der Beek was unable to attend the table read in person due to his declining health, Williamson stated that Van Der Beek's spirit was present. "He's going to be with us for always. He's awesome," Williamson added, accepting the award in memory of his mother and Van Der Beek.

Mary-Margaret Humes, who played Dawson's mother on the show, also attended the gala with Jackson. The event also honored actress Katherine LaNasa, who spoke about her own breast cancer diagnosis.

Dawson's Creek, which ran for six seasons until 2003, was instrumental in launching the careers of several actors, including Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson, and James Van Der Beek. Van Der Beek, who moved to Austin, Texas, with his family in 2020 for a simpler life, revealed his cancer diagnosis in November 2024. He had been privately managing his illness with the support of his family before his passing.