James Van Der Beek Dead At 48: Jennifer Garner, Lin-Manuel Miranda & More Celebrities Pay Tribute

Hollywood is mourning the loss of beloved “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues” star James Van Der Beek. The dad of six passed away on Feb. 11 after battling colorectal cancer for more than two years. He was 48. His wife, Kimberly, shared the sad news in a joint Instagram post and fans and famous friends flooded the comment section with sorrow and condolences. The actor’s “Dawson’s” co-stars Busy Phillipps and Kerr Smith were among the first to pay tribute, with Busy reflecting on her and James’ longtime friendship. “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda also shared a now-bittersweet photo with Kimberly and her and James’ children at a “Dawson’s Creek” reunion on Broadway last September. Lin-Manuel had filled in as Dawson last-minute when James bowed out due to illness. Other stars including Jennifer Garner, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Olivia Munn and Chad Michael Murray also took to social media to offer kind words about James and the legacy he leaves behind.