Dawson's Creek Cast Reunites in Emotional Tribute to James Van Der Beek

Busy Philipps is sharing details about the “incredibly unique” moment of coming together with her former Dawson’s Creek castmates to pay tribute to James Van Der Beek.

“I’ve waited too long to share about our Dawson’s Creek reunion performance at the Richard Rogers Theater last week, but honestly, it was such an extraordinarily profound experience that it took me this entire week to digest the two days we spent rehearsing the script, rekindling our connections, and visiting with Kimberly [Van Der Beek] and the children,” Philipps, aged 46, stated in an Instagram update posted on Sunday, September 28.

She added: “My deepest thanks go to everyone who promptly replied to our messages with an affirmative! And I’m immensely thankful to my friend Rene for co-hosting the event, and to Lin [Manuel Miranda] – who brilliantly filled in as Dawson Leery at short notice, and to Norm Lewis– whose rendition of Music Of the Night, which we originally hoped James would perform, brought tears to our eyes. A massive appreciation also goes to Kevin Williamson, Greg Berlanti, Jason Moore, Jeffery Sellers, Tommy Kail, Suzanne Gomez, Betel Daniel, and all those who dedicated their efforts to make this evening a reality.”

The performer, known for her role as Audrey Liddell in the popular show, extended her gratitude to “everyone employed at the Richard Rogers” and to the present ensemble of the successful Broadway production Hamilton “for kindly allowing us to take over your dressing rooms for the event.

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“My sincere thanks go to the fans who attended, contributed, and participated in bidding to gather funds for F Cancer and James. And particular appreciation goes to James, Kimberly, and their kids – for consistently demonstrating to all of us the essence of true affection and resilience when confronting this illness,” she proceeded. “James’s presence was deeply missed, yet his video messages and the optimism of his family uplifted everyone! Seriously, F cancer.”

The gathering on Monday, September 22, also saw the participation of Philipps’ previous castmates Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams, each stepping back into their characters of Joey Potter, Pacey Witter, and Jen Lindley, in that order.

Van Der Beek, aged 48, who portrayed Dawson Leery in the initial run of the show, could not be present because of a health issue. The performer disclosed in August 2023 that he had received a diagnosis of stage 3 colon cancer. The get-together was organized to collect donations for cancer study and therapy as a tribute to the actor.

“This was the night I had anticipated the most ever since my wonderful Michelle Williams mentioned organizing it, all the way back in January… Thus, you can understand my deep disappointment when a pair of stomach viruses teamed up to incapacitate me and force me to stay home at the absolute worst time,” the actor shared on Instagram on September 21, merely a day before the gathering. “Despite all my attempts… I won’t be able to attend. I won’t get to stand on that platform and express my gratitude to every person in the audience for supporting me, and for fighting against cancer, during my greatest need.”

The performer further disclosed that Hamilton’s Miranda would serve as his substitute during his unavailability, although Van Der Beek did participate virtually through a video recording.

“It’s hard to believe I’m not there,” the actor expressed in a video distributed before the ensemble reassembled on stage. “I’m saddened that I can’t embrace my fellow actors, my wonderful cast, face-to-face, and my sole desire was to be on that stage and thank each and every individual in this venue for being here tonight — from the performers to the production team to everyone who volunteered their efforts and has been so kind. And especially every single one of you. You are truly the most incredible supporters globally. Thank you for attending.”

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On Sunday, Philipps notably acknowledged her costar Jackson, following their fervent kiss during the stage presentation.

“And lastly- a chuckle to Josh’s reply to me when I commented after our final practice, ‘I mean, we could truly kiss,’ and he gazed at me and stated, ‘Well… I believe we owe it to the audience to deliver what they desire,’” she penned.