James Van Der Beek's Dawson Creek mom Mary‑Margaret Humes 'at a loss for words' after his death

Mary‑Margaret Humes, the actress who played Dawson Leery’s mother Gail Leery on Dawson’s Creek, has shared a deeply emotional tribute following the death of her onscreen son, James Van Der Beek, who died at age 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer.

Humes wrote on social media that she was “at a loss for words” in the wake of Van Der Beek’s passing, reflecting on their close bond both on and off screen. “James, my gracious warrior, you fought a hard battle against all odds with such quiet strength and dignity,” she wrote, adding that her “last conversations … merely a few days ago … are forever sitting softly in my heart for safekeeping.” She also asked for respect for the family’s privacy during their grief at the request of Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly.

Fans and fellow cast members have also been paying tribute to Van Der Beek’s legacy. The series’ official accounts and production partners honored him for defining a generation of television, and former co‑stars, including Busy Philipps and others, have shared memories and condolences online.

Van Der Beek’s death has prompted an outpouring of affection and sorrow from both colleagues and audiences who grew up with him on screen. Many have noted that his portrayal of Dawson — earnest, hopeful and layered with emotion — left a lasting impact on television storytelling and on the hearts of fans around the world.

As tributes continue, Humes’ words serve as a poignant, personal reflection on the bond forged during one of television’s most iconic teen dramas and the real affection that endured long after the cameras stopped rolling.