The teen drama Dawson’s Creek, a cultural touchstone of the late 1990s and early 2000s, launched the careers of many now-prominent actors. Here’s an update on the main cast, detailing their work and personal lives since the show ended. The series’ influence on a generation is undeniable, but the actors themselves have followed diverse paths.
James Van Der Beek
James Van Der Beek, who played the titular Dawson Leery, tragically passed away on February 11 after battling colorectal cancer. He was 47.
Before his passing, Van Der Beek maintained a steady presence in television, with roles in shows such as Don’t Trust the B**** in Apartment 23, CSI: Cyber, and Pose. His film work includes Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children.
Katie Holmes
Katie Holmes, best known for her role as Joey Potter, has continued to thrive in Hollywood. She has appeared in high-profile films like Batman Begins and Thank You for Smoking, as well as directing the 2016 film All We Had.
Holmes’ personal life has been widely publicized; she was married to Tom Cruise from 2006 to 2012, with whom she shares daughter Suri. She later dated Jamie Foxx from 2017 to 2019.
Joshua Jackson
Joshua Jackson, the actor behind Pacey Witter, has had a notable career in both film and television. His recent projects include critically acclaimed shows like When They See Us, Little Fires Everywhere, and Fatal Attraction. In 2024, he took on a leading role in the medical drama Doctor Odyssey.
Jackson’s relationships have also garnered attention, including a long-term partnership with Diane Kruger (2006-2016) and a marriage to Jodie Turner-Smith (2018-2023), with whom he shares daughter Juno.
Michelle Williams
Michelle Williams, who played Jen Lindley, has become one of the most respected actors of her generation. She has received five Academy Award nominations for her roles in films like Brokeback Mountain, Blue Valentine, and The Fabelmans.
Williams is also a mother to daughter Matilda, born in 2005 to her and the late Heath Ledger. Her career has been marked by consistent critical acclaim and artistic integrity.
Meredith Monroe
Meredith Monroe, known for her role as Andie McPhee, has continued to work in television and film. She has appeared in shows such as 13 Reasons Why and Criminal Minds, as well as films like The Edge of Seventeen.
Monroe has been married to Steven Kavovit since 1999, and they share two children.
Mary Beth Peil
Mary Beth Peil, who portrayed Grams, has maintained a steady career in acting. She has appeared in shows like The Good Wife and The Village, and has also starred in films such as Flags of Our Fathers and The Stepford Wives.
In 2017, she received a Tony Award nomination for her role in Anastasia on Broadway. She is a mother to Gwyneth and Michael.
Busy Philipps
Busy Philipps, who played Audrey Liddell, has continued to work in both film and television. She is known for roles in White Chicks and Cougar Town, and more recently, Girls5Eva.
Philipps remains close friends with Michelle Williams and is a mother to her two children, Birdie and Cricket, with her ex-husband Marc Silverstein.
The cast of Dawson’s Creek has largely navigated successful and varied careers, proving that the show was a launching pad for enduring talent. While some have faced personal challenges, all have left their mark on the entertainment industry.
