“Dawson’s Creek” premiered on The WB in 1998. Teen dramas were popular in the 1990s, and this show fit right in. Audiences loved it, and they loved the cast. The show took place in the fictional seaside town of Capeside. “Dawson’s Creek” was able to turn its young cast, which featured James Van Der Beek, into household names overnight. Almost 30 years later, we take a look at the “Dawson’s Creek” cast and where they are now.
James Van Der Beek (Dawson Leery)
Getty“Dawson’s Creek” arrived, and so did Van Der Beek. The girls were swooning over his character, Dawson Leery. The aspiring filmmaker was the heart of the show. Van Der Beek would go on to become the breakout star of the late ‘90s.
He would quickly become the face everyone recognized from the show, thanks to press and promotional tours for the show.
James stayed active in TV and film for years, but he sadly passed away in February 2026 at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer. His list of credits includes “Don’t Trust the B in Apartment 23” and “CSI: Cyber.” He also competed on reality TV shows “Dancing With the Stars” and “The Masked Singer.” He was even writing a memoir before his passing.
Katie Holmes (Joey Potter)
GettyThe best friend of Dawson was Joey Potter. During the show’s run, they would fall in love. Katie Holmes portrayed the part.
This part contributed to Holmes’ rise to fame. There was a lot of chemistry between her and Van Der Beek in this role as well. The popularity of the show was aided by their chemistry.
After “Dawson’s Creek” concluded, Holmes carried on with her acting career. She has also dabbled with producing and directing.
In 2023, she directed the film “Rare Objects.” In addition, Holmes is collaborating with co-star Joshua Jackson on the upcoming “Happy Hours” trilogy.
Michelle Williams (Jen Lindley)
GettyMichelle Williams played Jen Lindley on “Dawson’s Creek.” She was a complex character, and definitely changed the vibe in Capeside once she arrived.
This role helped Williams establish herself as an actress who has some serious range. She just had this raw portrayal, which got the attention of critics.
GettyMichelle was able to take that momentum and use it to become one of her generation’s most successful actresses. Williams has received multiple Oscar nominations, all while being able to balance her career with family life.
Joshua Jackson (Pacey Witter)
GettyPacey Witter was played by Joshua Jackson. He was the hilarious best friend of Dawson, but also the underdog you would be rooting for. The fans loved him, as he just had this charm about him. Some of the show’s most emotional and dramatic moments on the show involved Pacey.
Pacey had some of the most memorable emotional arcs and romantic drama on the show.
Jackson has kept himself busy since “Dawson’s Creek.” He has starred in shows like “The Affair,” “Doctor Odyssey,” “Fatal Attraction,” and “Fringe.” He also starred in the 2025 movie “Karate Kid: Legends.”
Mary-Margaret Humes (Gail Leery)
GettyMary-Margaret Humes played Dwason’s devoted and supportive mother, Gail Leery. She was able to balance humor with those heartfelt family moments fans tuned in for every week.
That maternal role left fans wanting more from her every episode.
After “Dawson’s Creek” came to an end, Humes continued to act. You could find her in shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Criminal Minds,” and “CSI,” or even in Hallmark Channel movies. While Humes continues to remain active in television, she keeps up with the link to her Capeside legacy.
