James Van Der Beek bought a $4.7 million Texas ranch just one month before his tragic death, according to new reports. The beloved actor, best known for his role as Dawson Leery on the iconic teen drama Dawson's Creek, had plans to relocate his family to the sprawling Austin property before his sudden passing.

James Van Der Beek Final Days in Texas

The 47-year-old actor purchased the 36-acre ranch in Austin, Texas, in January 2026, just weeks before he died from complications related to cancer. The stunning property featured a modern farmhouse, barn, and extensive land for the actor's six children to explore.

"He was so excited about starting this new chapter in Texas," a source close to the family revealed. "He wanted a quieter life away from Hollywood, somewhere his kids could roam free." Entertainment insiders say the purchase represented Van Der Beek's desire to prioritize family over fame in his final months.

Dawson's Creek Star Legacy Lives On

Van Der Beek rose to fame in the late 1990s as the titular character on Dawson's Creek, the WB drama that defined a generation of teen television. His portrayal of the aspiring filmmaker Dawson Leery made him a household name and launched a career spanning over two decades in film and television.

Beyond Dawson's Creek, Van Der Beek appeared in notable films including Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction. More recently, he competed on Dancing with the Stars and appeared in various television series. Pop culture experts credit him with helping define the late 90s teen entertainment landscape alongside contemporaries like Freddie Prinze Jr. and Joshua Jackson.

Hollywood Mourns Loss of Beloved Actor

The entertainment industry has been rocked by Van Der Beek's sudden death. Former co-stars, including Katie Holmes and Michelle Williams, have shared heartfelt tributes on social media. His Dancing with the Stars partner described him as "kind, funny, and genuinely one of the good ones."

Fans have flooded social media with clips from Dawson's Creek, particularly the iconic crying meme that became a viral sensation years after the show ended. The image of Van Der Beek's character Dawson crying perfectly captured early internet humor and introduced the actor to a new generation.

What Happens to the Texas Ranch

The future of the $4.7 million Texas ranch remains uncertain. Van Der Beek's wife Kimberly and their six children were reportedly planning to make the move to Austin before his health declined rapidly.

The property, located in the desirable Austin hill country, represented a dream of simpler living for the actor who spent decades navigating Hollywood's demands. Read the full TMZ report on James Van Der Beek's Texas ranch purchase. His death marks the end of an era for 90s teen drama fans who grew up watching Dawson navigate love and loss in Capeside.