The cast of Dawson’s Creek proves that teen TV stardom can lead to big-time success — and serious money.
The iconic coming-of-age drama, created by Kevin Williamson, premiered on The WB in 1998 and ran for six seasons until 2003. Set in the fictional town of Capeside, Massachusetts, the show followed Joey Potter (Katie Holmes), her best friend Dawson Leery (James Van Der Beek), and his sidekick Pacey Witter (Joshua Jackson). Everything shifted when New York transplant Jen Lindley (Michelle Williams) arrived, sparking love triangles, heartbreak, and unforgettable drama.
Over time, the cast expanded with fan favorites like Jen’s grandmother Grams (Mary Beth Peil), siblings Jack and Andie McPhee (Kerr Smith and Meredith Monroe), Dawson’s parents Mitch and Gale Leery (John Wesley Shipp and Mary-Margaret Humes), and Joey’s college roommate Audrey Liddell (Busy Philipps). Each character added layers that helped the series become one of the defining teen dramas of the late ’90s and early 2000s.
Decades later, the love for Dawson’s Creek is still strong. In September 2025, the original stars reunited for a reading of the pilot episode at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City. The event, which sold out in just 12 minutes, raised money for F Cancer in honor of Van Der Beek’s colorectal cancer battle. The nostalgic reunion reminded fans why the show became such a cultural touchstone in the first place.
After Capeside, many of the stars went on to huge Hollywood success. Williams is today an Oscar-nominated actress known for her acclaimed film career. Jackson built a steady résumé with hits like Fringe and The Affair. Holmes has thrived in movies, theater, and directing, while Van Der Beek himself remains a household name through acting and reality TV appearances. And with that success came fortune. From Holmes’ film and fashion ventures to Jackson’s consistent TV roles and Williams’ award-winning projects, the Dawson’s Creek cast has turned their teen drama beginnings into impressive net worths.
Scroll through the gallery to uncover the cast’s salaries and who’s earned the biggest payday since their Capeside days.
About the Author
