James Van Der Beek was writing memoir before cancer death at 48

James Van Der Beek was reportedly writing his memoir before his tragic death.

Sources told Deadline on Wednesday the “Dawson’s Creek” alum was quietly writing a book about his life while he battled colorectal cancer.

The actor was said to have worked on the book while juggling his final acting projects, which included the “Legally Blonde” prequel series “Elle,” Prime Video’s “Overcompensating,” and his appearances on Fox’s “The Masked Singer.”

It remains unknown at this time how far along he managed to get in his writing or if there are plans to publish the memoir posthumously.

A rep for Van Der Beek did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

Van Der Beek died on Wednesday at 48 years old following his nearly 3-year battle with cancer. His family announced his passing in an Instagram statement, promising to share more of the actor’s final wishes in the near future.

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared via a joint Instagram statement Wednesday.

“He met his final days with courage, faith and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come.”

The “Varsity Blues” star had been battling Stage 3 cancer since August 2023.

He was forced to reveal his diagnosis over a year later after learning “a tabloid was going to run with the news,” he told People In November 2024.

“I’ve been dealing with this privately until now, getting treatment and dialing in my overall health with greater focus than ever before,” Van Der Beek added.

“I’m in a good place and feeling strong. It’s been quite the initiation, and I’ll tell you more when I’m ready.”

He later admitted that cancer treatment had put a financial strain on his family and began selling autographed “Varsity Blues” merch to help fund his care.

Van Der Beek auctioned off his character Jonathon “Mox” Moxon’s cleats and hat.

He also sold memorabilia from “Dawson’s Creek”, including his character Dawson Leery’s clothing and bedroom decor.