Welcome to an emergency special episode of Leftist Teen Drama in which Maria pays tribute to teen drama icon James Van Der Beek, who sadly passed away at the age of 48 on February 11, 2026 after a battle with colorectal cancer. Thanks to Kelly Gilbert for submitting a reflection! Maria reflects on his iconic roles, including on shows we’ve covered – his legendary run on DAWSON’S CREEK (1998-2003) and guest-starring roles on ONE TREE HILL (2003-2012) and OVERCOMPENSATING (2025-present). We also mourn the fact that James spent the last years of his life selling off memorabilia and fundraising to be able to afford his cancer treatments. May this be a call to continue fighting for our vision of a collective future where every person has access to universal healthcare. Leftist Teen Drama is sending all our love and solidarity to James’ friends and family and all that knew him.

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ABOUT US:

MARIA DIPASQUALE (she/her; host/editor) is a Brooklyn-based union communicator, organizer, and writer who watches too much TV. She splits her free time between devouring teen dramas, creating this podcast, tenant organizing, and writing and reading (fan)fiction. Follow Maria on Twitter @Maria_DiP26, IG @mdzip, and tiktok @marialovesunions. 

JEFF MCHALE (he/him; producer) is an extremely online guy who plays games, works in the cannabis industry, and loves talking old TV.

“Leftist Teen Drama” alternative logo by Charles O’Leary

Maria and Jeff’s good union cats CLARENCE and VINNY may make an appearance and/or be mentioned. 

intro song: Stomping the Room by Delicate Beats

All opinions shared on this show are that of individuals and do not represent the views of any organization we may be affiliated with.

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SOURCES DISCUSSED IN THE EPISODE: