7 James Van Der Beek Movies and TV Shows to Honor the Actor

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - The passing of James Van Der Beek on February 11, 2026 saddened fans worldwide. The 48-year-old actor passed away after battling stage 3 colorectal cancer since November 2024. To honor his memory, many people are now revisiting James Van Der Beek movies and TV shows that defined his career and touched millions of viewers.

James Van Der Beek was an American actor who became a household name in the late 1990s. His most famous role was playing Dawson Leery on the teen drama "Dawson's Creek." Throughout his career, he showed his range by taking on different types of characters in both television and film.

To honor his career, it is a good time to look back at James Van Der Beek movies and TV Shows that left a strong impression on audiences. Here are the seven most memorable performances of the American actor you should watch.

Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Fandango At Home, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Plex

This television series launched James Van Der Beek to stardom. He played Dawson Leery, a film-obsessed teenager navigating life in a small coastal town. The show follows four close friends as they deal with love, friendship, and growing up. Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams rounded out the main cast. The show ran for six seasons and became a cultural phenomenon.

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

In this comedy series, James Van Der Beek played a satirical version of himself, poking fun at his celebrity status. The show centers on two contrasting roommates in New York City: June, a Midwestern transplant, and Chloe, her unpredictable roommate. Van Der Beek appears as Chloe's best friend in absurd scenarios. The two-season series earned critical praise for his sharp comedic timing and self-awareness.

Where to Watch: Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Kanopy, Hoopla, Plex, Fawesome

This film marked a dramatic departure from Van Der Beek's teen idol image. He portrayed Sean Bateman, a college student and drug dealer navigating complicated romantic relationships. The narrative offers a dark look at campus life with an ensemble cast including Shannyn Sossamon, Ian Somerhalder, and Jessica Biel. Director Roger Avary adapted the film from Bret Easton Ellis's novel.

Where to Watch: Peacock, Paramount+, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Plex

Van Der Beek starred as Jonathan "Mox" Moxon, an intelligent backup quarterback thrust into the spotlight when his team's star player gets injured. Set in a Texas town where football is everything, Mox faces pressure from a win-obsessed coach played by Jon Voight. The film examines themes of integrity and choosing personal values over external pressure. Paul Walker co-stars in this memorable sports drama.

Where to Watch: Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

Van Der Beek appeared in four episodes during season 6 of this popular teen drama. He played Adam Reese, a film director interested in adapting a novel written by series protagonist Lucas Scott, portrayed by Chad Michael Murray. His character reminded viewers of Dawson from "Dawson's Creek" while being different in many ways. The series ran for nine seasons and centered on basketball and family dynamics.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV

Van Der Beek provided the English voice for Pazu in this acclaimed Studio Ghibli film by legendary director Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows a young boy who encounters a mysterious girl and discovers she holds the key to finding Laputa, a legendary floating castle. Disney released the English-dubbed version in 1999, featuring Van Der Beek alongside Anna Paquin. The film showcases Miyazaki's signature blend of adventure and fantasy.

Where to Watch: Prime Video, Paramount+, Apple TV

Van Der Beek portrayed FBI Agent Elijah Mundo in this procedural drama focused on cybercrime investigations. The series followed a specialized team tackling cases involving hacking, online fraud, and digital threats. Patricia Arquette led the cast as Special Agent Avery Ryan, a cyber psychologist heading the unit. The show ran for two seasons with 31 episodes total on CBS, demonstrating Van Der Beek's ability to handle serious law enforcement roles.