James Van Der Beek’s final role is a prequel to one of the best comedies of the 2000s

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James Van Der Beek, known for playing Dawson Leery in the popular 1990s TV show Dawson’s Creek, has passed away at 48. He became a teen idol through the show and recently appeared in a prequel to a well-loved comedy from the 2000s.

I was so shocked and saddened to hear about James Van Der Beek. His family announced he passed away this morning, February 11th. He’d been bravely sharing his battle with colorectal cancer for the past year, and it’s just heartbreaking to hear this news.

Fans and fellow actors shared an outpouring of tributes online following the star’s passing. Among them was Katie Holmes, his former co-star from Dawson’s Creek, who posted on Instagram about her sadness and appreciation for his impact on her life.

Okay, so everyone remembers me from Dawson’s Creek, but I’ve been pretty busy since then! I’ve popped up in shows like CSI: Cyber and Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, even did some voice work on Vampirina, and I was even in a fun little Power Rangers short. But honestly, my latest project is super exciting – I’m part of a prequel series to one of the funniest shows from the 2000s, and I think people are really going to love it.

James Van Der Beek’s final role is in the Legally Blonde prequel

Fans can still see the late actor in the horror film The Gates, releasing in March. However, his last project will be Elle, a new Legally Blonde prequel series on Prime Video, premiering in July. The show focuses on a young Elle Woods, the character originally portrayed by Reese Witherspoon.

The new series takes place in high school, years before the events of the first movie – a film that earned $142 million globally and launched a popular franchise, including a successful stage adaptation. Actor Van Der Beek joins the cast as Dean Wilson, the high school principal, in a repeating role.

The show will also feature James Van Der Beek as a candidate for mayor. He’ll be acting alongside Lexi Minetree, who plays Elle Woods. Amazon’s Prime Video is confident in the series, having already ordered a second season.

I saw Minetree posted about James Van Der Beek on her Instagram story, and it was really touching. She basically said she’s heartbroken and that she’ll miss him so much, praising his spirit and talent. It was a really sweet tribute.

Witherspoon shared a heartfelt message, describing the man as an incredibly talented and kind person. She expressed her sympathy and offered prayers for his family during this challenging time.

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2026-02-12 12:48