Introduction

Heather McComb is an accomplished American actress whose career has spanned decades in television and film. Though many recognize her as the first wife of Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek, her story reaches far beyond that chapter.

In February 2026, Van Der Beek’s death at age 48 following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer renewed public interest in those closest to him — including McComb. As tributes poured in for the late actor, many began revisiting the early years of his life, including his marriage to Heather McComb.

Here’s a closer look at who Heather McComb is, her career, her relationship with Van Der Beek, and where she stands today.

Who Is Heather McComb?

Heather McComb is an American actress born on March 2, 1977, in Barnegat, New Jersey. She began acting as a child and steadily built a résumé that includes television dramas, independent films, and guest appearances on major network shows.

Over the years, she has developed a reputation as a versatile performer capable of handling both emotionally intense roles and lighter television fare.

Her Connection to James Van Der Beek

Heather McComb married James Van Der Beek in 2003, at the height of his fame following Dawson’s Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003.

Van Der Beek, born March 8, 1977, in Cheshire, Connecticut, was the son of Melinda Weber, a former Broadway dancer and gymnastics teacher, and James William Van Der Beek, a telecommunications executive. He had two siblings, Jared and Juliana Van Der Beek.

McComb and Van Der Beek were together for nearly seven years before separating in 2009. Their divorce was finalized in 2010. The couple did not have children together.

Recently, Van Der Beek made headlines after passing away in February 2026 following complications related to stage 3 colorectal cancer, which he had publicly disclosed in late 2024. His death brought renewed attention to his personal history, including his early marriage to McComb.

Why She Is Relevant Now

While Heather McComb has maintained a relatively private life in recent years, interest in her has resurfaced following James Van Der Beek’s death.

As fans reflect on his journey — from teen heartthrob to devoted father of six with his second wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek — many are also revisiting his first marriage and the woman who shared those early Hollywood years with him.

Still, McComb’s identity stands on its own, rooted in her long-standing career in the entertainment industry.

Early Life & Childhood

Heather McComb grew up in New Jersey and showed interest in acting at a young age. By her early teens, she was already appearing in television roles, signaling the start of a steady professional path in Hollywood.

Unlike many child actors whose careers stall, McComb transitioned successfully into adult roles, continuing to work consistently in television and film.

Family Background, Parents & Siblings

Heather McComb has kept details about her parents and siblings largely private. What is known is that she was raised in New Jersey before moving into the entertainment industry full time.

Her former husband, James Van Der Beek, came from a family rooted in both business and the arts. His mother, Melinda Weber, influenced his early exposure to performance, while his father, James William Van Der Beek, provided a stable foundation outside of show business.

Education

Specific details about McComb’s formal education are not widely publicized. Like many young actors, her early start in the entertainment industry likely shaped her educational path.

Career and Professional Life

Heather McComb began acting in the early 1990s. She appeared in television shows such as:

• The Young Riders

• Profiler

• Party of Five

• Chicago Hope

• Without a Trace

• CSI: Miami

She also had roles in films including Stay Tuned (1992) and Wild Things (1998).

McComb built a career characterized by steady guest appearances and supporting roles, earning credibility as a working actress rather than relying solely on celebrity connections.

Her career trajectory demonstrates longevity — an achievement in an industry known for rapid turnover.

Connection to the Celebrity: Relationship Dynamic

Heather McComb and James Van Der Beek married in 2003, shortly after Dawson’s Creek concluded. At the time, Van Der Beek was navigating life after global teen stardom.

Their relationship unfolded during a transitional period in his career. While Van Der Beek explored film roles like Varsity Blues and later television projects, McComb continued working in episodic television.

Though they kept much of their marriage private, their separation in 2009 marked the end of a significant chapter for both.

Shortly after their divorce, Van Der Beek met Kimberly Brook during a 2009 trip to Israel. He later remarried in 2010 and went on to have six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah.

Recently, when Van Der Beek made headlines due to his cancer diagnosis and subsequent passing, many reflected on his personal evolution — from early Hollywood marriage to family-centered life in Texas.

Personal Life & Relationships

Following her divorce from Van Der Beek, Heather McComb largely stepped away from the spotlight regarding her personal relationships.

She has maintained privacy around her romantic life, choosing to focus attention on her career rather than public commentary about her former marriage.

Net Worth

Heather McComb’s exact net worth is not publicly confirmed. However, as a working actress with decades of credits, she has maintained financial stability through consistent roles in television and film.

James Van Der Beek, at the time of his death, was estimated to have a multi-million-dollar net worth from his long-running acting career.

Interesting Facts About Heather McComb

• She began acting professionally as a teenager.

• She married James Van Der Beek the same year Dawson’s Creek ended (2003).

• She has appeared in multiple crime and procedural dramas.

• She kept her divorce relatively low-profile despite intense media attention.

• She built a career independent of her high-profile marriage.

 

Recent News or Updates

James Van Der Beek died in February 2026 at age 48 after a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He had first revealed his diagnosis publicly in November 2024.

While Heather McComb has not made extensive public statements regarding his passing, renewed public interest in Van Der Beek’s life has brought attention back to their marriage during the early 2000s.

His death has been discussed respectfully, with tributes focusing on his legacy as an actor and father.

Conclusion

Heather McComb’s story is one of steady professionalism and quiet resilience. While her marriage to James Van Der Beek remains part of her public narrative, it represents only a chapter in a broader career that began in her teens and continues today.

As the world reflects on Van Der Beek’s life and legacy following his passing, McComb remains a reminder of the early years that shaped his journey — and of the many individuals whose lives intersect briefly with fame yet stand strong on their own.

FAQs

Who is Heather McComb?
Heather McComb is an American actress born in 1977, known for her roles in television dramas and as the first wife of James Van Der Beek.

When were Heather McComb and James Van Der Beek married?
They were married in 2003 and divorced in 2010.

Did Heather McComb and James Van Der Beek have children?
No, they did not have children together.

What happened to James Van Der Beek?
He died in February 2026 after battling stage 3 colorectal cancer.

What is Heather McComb doing now?
She maintains a relatively private life while continuing her work as an actress.