Katie Holmes Speaks Out After 'Dawson's Creek' Co-Star James Van Der Beek's Death

Katie Holmes is breaking her silence after the tragic death of her Dawson’s Creek co-star James Van Der Beek.

On Wednesday (February 11), James passed away after battling colorectal cancer since August 2023. He was 48.

Hours later, Katie, who starred as Joey Potter opposite James as Dawson Leery on the hit teen drama, took to Instagram to pay tribute to her late co-star.

Keep reading to find out more…“I formed some words with a heavy heart,” Katie wrote in the caption of her post. “This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’ journey. He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children. ❤️”

She also shared a handwritten note, in which she wrote, “James, thank you. To share space with your imagination is sacred — breathing the same air in the land of make believe and trusting that each other’s hearts are safe in their expression…”

“These are some of the memories, along with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs — adventures of a unique youth,” she continued. “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.”

“I mourn this loss with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it,” Katie concluded. “To Kimberly and the children, we are here for you always. And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion.”

Back in September 2025, Katie and the majority of the Dawson’s Creek cast reunited for a benefit event to raise money for James and his cancer battle. Due to his illness, James wasn’t able to attend.

If you didn’t see, another Dawson’s Creek star also paid tribute to James after his passing.