In this special tribute episode, guest Brittany Cunningham and I reflect on the life, career, and lasting impact of James Van Der Beek. Though we never knew him personally, his work shaped a generation; especially through Dawson’s Creek and the character of Dawson Leery. At least for me. We talk about how Dawson represented something rare at the time which is a male character who felt deeply, questioned everything, and made emotional honesty feel meaningful. For many of us, he was more than a TV character, he was a companion through some of our most formative years. We also look back on James’s wider career, the humility he carried through fame, the love and honor he shared with his family, and the sincerity that made him feel like more than just a performer. This episode is a conversation about legacy, connection, family, love, and the strange, real grief that can come from losing someone who helped shape your story, even if you never met them. Rest Easy, James. This one is for you.

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