James Van Der Beek will always be remembered as an iconic figure in the world of TV and film. His untimely death at the age of 48 has left his fans and the industry in shock and mourning. As we reflect on his life and legacy, it is clear that James made a significant impact on popular culture and paved the way for many other talented actors.
Although most people know James for his role as the lovable Dawson Leery in the hit series Dawson’s Creek, his career was much more diverse and impressive. To honor his memory, we have compiled a list of some of his most notable performances in both TV and film, all of which are available to stream now.
Dawson’s Creek – Undoubtedly one of the most iconic shows of the 1990s, Dawson’s Creek starred James in the lead role of Dawson Leery. The show followed a group of friends as they navigated through the challenges of young adulthood. It was a groundbreaking depiction of teenage life and set the standard for many similar shows that followed. James’ portrayal of Dawson turned him into a global heartthrob and launched the careers of Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson, and Katie Holmes. With 122 episodes spanning from 1998 to 2003, Dawson’s Creek remains a beloved and timeless series, even making it onto Entertainment Weekly’s New TV Classics list in 2007. You can now stream all six seasons on ITVX.
One Tree Hill – In 2008, James had a four-episode arc on One Tree Hill, a show that was often compared to Dawson’s Creek. Set in the fictional town of Tree Hill, North Carolina, the show followed the lives of two half-brothers and their friends. James played Adam Reece, an eccentric film director hired to direct an adaptation of one of the character’s novels. He was the only non-recurring actor to receive the title of Special Guest Star during the show’s nine-season run. You can now stream all nine seasons of One Tree Hill on ITVX.
The Rules of Attraction – In 2002, James took on the lead role in the film adaptation of Brett Easton Ellis’ black comedy novel. The movie, a spin-off of American Psycho, followed three college students who become entangled in a love triangle. James played Sean, the younger brother of Patrick Bateman, who becomes infatuated with Shannyn Sossaman’s character, unaware that she is still involved with her bisexual ex, played by Ian Somerhalder. While the film received mixed reviews, it allowed James to break out of his “boy next door” image from Dawson’s Creek. You can now stream The Rules of Attraction on the BFI Player.
How I Met Your Mother – James also made a guest appearance on How I Met Your Mother, appearing in three episodes between 2008 and 2013 as Robin’s first boyfriend, Simon. He even appeared in a hilarious “music video” for Robin’s song “Sandcastles in the Sand.” His character continued to make appearances in later seasons, including in a flashback sequence. You can now stream all nine seasons of How I Met Your Mother on Disney+.
Don’t Trust the B– in Apartment 23 – In this sitcom, James played a parody version of himself in all 26 episodes. The show followed a party girl who tries to scare away her roommates until she forms an unlikely friendship with her new cohabitant. In this role, James hilariously mocked his public persona and the industry, playing a desperate version of himself struggling to find success outside of Dawson’s Creek. The show premiered in 2012 and quickly gained a cult following, but unfortunately, it only lasted for two seasons. However, both seasons are available to stream on Disney+.
Pose – In the first season of Ryan Murphy’s groundbreaking series, James played the character of Matt Bromley. He was a co-worker of Evan Peters’ character at the Trump Organization, who eventually outs his colleague’s extramarital affairs out of jealousy. While his character was in a subplot, James’ performance was praised for adding depth to the scenes of excess in the 1980s. You can now stream all three seasons of Pose on Disney+.
Overcompensating – James’ final TV appearance was in the first season of Overcompensating before his death in February 2026. In a touching moment, he played a middle-aged
