Kevin Williamson honored at Heroes Gala while remembering James Van Der Beek

At the Barbara Berlanti Heroes Gala in Santa Monica, 'Dawson’s Creek' creator Kevin Williamson was honored with the Barbara Berlanti Hero Award. The event, organized by producer Greg Berlanti to benefit the organization F Cancer, served as a tribute to the late actor James Van Der Beek.

Williamson, who received the award from Joshua Jackson and Julie Plec, spoke emotionally about Van Der Beek, describing him as the ‘soul of the show’ and noting how he handled his battle with colorectal cancer with grace and courage. The gala aims to fund F Cancer’s initiatives regarding early detection, prevention, and psychosocial support.

Van Der Beek passed away in February, following a diagnosis in 2023. The tribute follows a 2025 'Dawson’s Creek' reunion table read held in New York to raise funds for the actor’s treatment and cancer research.