James Van Der Beek

Profession: Actor

Nationality:

Biography: James Van Der Beek is an American actor best known for his portrayal of Dawson Leery in the television drama Dawson's Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003. This role catapulted him to fame among teenage and young adult audiences during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Van Der Beek began acting at a young age. Before his breakthrough role in Dawson's Creek, he appeared in off-Broadway plays and in several films, including Angus (1995) and I Love You, I Love You Not (1996).

Dawson's Creek, created by Kevin Williamson, was a defining teen drama of its era and dealt with the lives and relationships of a group of friends in the fictional town of Capeside. Van Der Beek's character, Dawson Leery, an aspiring filmmaker, became an icon and the show was noted for its writing and its handling of various social issues.

Following Dawson's Creek, Van Der Beek appeared in various films and television shows. He played roles in movies like Varsity Blues (1999) and The Rules of Attraction (2002). His later television work includes a notable self-parodying role in the ABC sitcom Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 and appearances in shows such as Criminal Minds, CSI: Cyber, and Pose.

Apart from acting, Van Der Beek has been active in several causes, including cancer research and awareness. He has also participated in the twenty-eighth season of Dancing with the Stars, in which he was paired with dancer Emma Slater and, while consistently a favourite to win, the two were eliminated in the semi-finals.

Born: March 8, 1977
Birthplace: Cheshire, Connecticut, USA
Age: 47 years old

Generation: Generation X
Chinese Zodiac: Snake
Star Sign: Pisces