biographical article needs additional citations for verification. Please help by adding reliable sources. Contentious material about living persons that is unsourced or poorly sourced must be removed immediately, especially if potentially libelous or harmful. (March 2009) James Van Der Beek Born James William Van Der Beek, Jr. March 8, 1977 (1977-03-08) (age 34) Cheshire, Connecticut, U.S. Occupation Actor Years active 1990–present Spouse Heather McComb (2003–2009) Kimberly Brooks (2010–present) Website www.vanderbeek.com James William Van Der Beek, Jr. (born March 8, 1977) is an American television, film, and stage actor, known for his portrayal of Dawson Leery in The WB series Dawson's Creek..