Monday, February 16, 2026

Kesha Pays Tribute to Her Late ‘Blow’ Video Co-Star James Van Der Beek

Back in 2011, James Van Der Beek, best known for his role as Dawson Leery in the hit teen drama Dawson’s Creek, surprised fans by taking on a completely different persona in Kesha’s music video for her song “Blow”. The video, which was released on February 25th, 2011, marked a turning point in Van Der Beek’s career as he shed his clean-cut image and embraced a more playful and cheeky side.

At the time, Van Der Beek had been known for his role as the sensitive and introspective Dawson, a character that had captured the hearts of many teenage girls in the late 90s and early 2000s. But with the release of “Blow”, Van Der Beek showed the world that he was ready to break away from his teen-drama image and take on more daring and unconventional roles.

In the music video, Van Der Beek plays a version of himself that is far from the wholesome and innocent Dawson. He is seen partying with Kesha and her friends, wearing a flashy suit and sunglasses, and even engaging in a dance-off with the pop star. This new side of Van Der Beek was a refreshing change for fans who had only seen him in more serious and dramatic roles.

The video was a hit, garnering millions of views and becoming one of the most talked-about music videos of the year. Fans and critics alike praised Van Der Beek for his comedic timing and willingness to poke fun at his own image. It was a bold move for the actor, who could have easily played it safe and stuck to the type of roles he was known for.

But Van Der Beek’s decision to take on a more light-hearted and fun role in the “Blow” music video was a testament to his versatility as an actor. It showed that he was not afraid to step out of his comfort zone and try something new. And it paid off, as the video helped to shed his teen-drama image and open up new opportunities for him in the entertainment industry.

Since the release of “Blow”, Van Der Beek has continued to take on a variety of roles, showcasing his range as an actor. He has appeared in both comedic and dramatic roles, proving that he is not just a one-dimensional actor. And while he may always be remembered as Dawson Leery, his role in the “Blow” music video showed that he is capable of so much more.

In addition to his acting career, Van Der Beek has also become a father of five and an advocate for mental health awareness. He has been open about his struggles with anxiety and has used his platform to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding mental health. This further proves that Van Der Beek is not just a talented actor, but also a compassionate and empathetic human being.

Looking back on the “Blow” music video, it’s clear that it was a pivotal moment in James Van Der Beek’s career. It marked the beginning of a new chapter for the actor, one where he was no longer confined to a certain type of role. It was a bold and daring move that paid off, and it continues to be a fan favorite to this day.

In conclusion, James Van Der Beek’s appearance in Kesha’s “Blow” music video back in 2011 was a game-changer for the actor. It showed that he was not afraid to take risks and break away from his teen-drama image. It also showcased his comedic talents and versatility as an actor. And while he may always be remembered as Dawson Leery, his role in the “Blow” music video will always be a reminder of his ability to surprise and entertain audiences.

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