James Van Der Beek recalled cancer symptom he blamed on coffee before his death aged 48

Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek spent months being vocal about his experience with colorectal cancer prior to his death, during which time he recalled one particular symptom that he originally blamed on his coffee intake.

The beloved actor, who was also known for his roles in Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction, died at the age of 48 on February 11, after being diagnosed with stage three colorectal cancer when he was 46.

News of his death was shared by his family on Instagram, who assured that he 'passed peacefully' and 'met his final days with courage, faith, and grace'.

Prior to his death, Van Der Beek made clear he wanted to 'raise awareness' for colorectal cancer, telling People in 2024 that he'd 'found it helpful and cathartic to share things publicly'.

Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and his six children (Ray Tamarra/GC Images)

In the interview published just a week after Van Der Beek initially announced his diagnosis, the actor admitted he'd 'always associated cancer with age and with unhealthy, sedentary lifestyles', but was proven wrong when he received his diagnosis despite eating healthily and being in 'amazing cardiovascular shape'.

In the wake of his diagnosis, Van Der Beek did recall noticing some changes in his bowel movements in the summer of 2023, but he didn't think cancer was to blame.

He explained: “I thought maybe I needed to stop coffee. Or maybe not put cream in the coffee. But when I cut that out and it didn’t improve, I thought, ‘All right, I better get this checked out'."

Van Der Beek underwent a colonoscopy, but he still 'felt really good' after the procedure. It wasn't until the gastroenterologist announced he had cancer that the reality of the situation hit Van Der Beek, and he 'went into shock'.

Van Der Beek announced his diagnosis in November 2024 (Andrew Toth/Getty Images)

The actor sought to treat his diagnosis with varying approaches, saying: “If you’ve heard about it, I’ve probably touched on it.”

Van Der Beek's family 'did everything possible' to support the husband and father, and now, in the wake of his death, a GoFundMe has said they are facing 'significant financial strain' due to the costs of the actor's medical care.

The fundraiser has been set up to help Van Der Beek's family 'navigate the road ahead' as they work to 'stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time'.

You can donate to the fundraiser here.

If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.