Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · September 23, 2025 · Entertainment

Sparks Fly: Joshua Jackson and Busy Philipps Reignite Dawson's Creek Flames

Joshua Jackson and Busy Philipps stunned fans on Monday night when they locked lips during a live Dawson's Creek reunion; seen on September 22, 2025

SCANDALOUS REUNION: Joshua Jackson and Busy Philipps Lock Lips Live on Stage, Leaving Fans Gasp

In a jaw-dropping moment that will go down in history as one of the most unforgettable reunions ever, Joshua Jackson and Busy Philipps locked lips live on stage during a Dawson's Creek reunion event in New York City. The passionate kiss sent shockwaves through the audience at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, leaving fans gasping for air and screaming with delight.

The 47-year-old actor, who played the iconic role of Pacey Witter, was reunited with his original co-stars Katie Holmes and Michelle Williams for a staged reading of the pilot episode. However, it was Jackson's sizzling chemistry with Philipps that stole the spotlight. The 46-year-old actress, who joined the series in season five as Audrey Liddell, reenacted one of the show's most scandalous storylines by playing Pacey's high school English teacher, Tamara Jacobs.

The 47-year-old actor and Philipps, 45, who joined the series in season five as Audrey Liddell, sent the audience at Richard Rodgers Theatre into a frenzy as they kissed on stage (pictured during their Dawson's Creek days)

As Jackson teased in character, "You fantasize about what it would be like to be with that young boy on the verge of manhood. Cause it helps you stay feeling attractive. Well, let me tell you something. You blew it lady, because I'm the best sex you'll never have!" Philipps delivered the infamous comeback line — "You're wrong about one thing, Pacey. You're not a boy" – before dramatically pulling him in for a steamy kiss that left fans speechless.

Social media erupted immediately after the kiss, with fans taking to Twitter to express their shock and delight. One fan even called it "every millennial's dream." Meanwhile, Philipps took to Instagram to poke fun at her family's reaction, joking that her children in the audience were not thrilled by the PDA.

The reunion event was a nostalgic night to remember, with Jackson, Holmes, and Williams reuniting for a staged reading of the pilot episode. However, it was James Van Der Beek's absence that stole the headlines. The actor, who is battling stage 3 colorectal cancer, introduced the performance via video, expressing his gratitude to his cast mates and fans.

Although Philipps originally played Joey's college roommate and Pacey's girlfriend, for the reunion she stepped into the role of Pacey's scandalous first lover: his high school teacher

In a surprise twist, even Steven Spielberg made an appearance in a pre-recorded message, quipping, "Maybe someday, I will get to have a Dawson's closet." The Dawson's Creek alum has been open about his cancer journey, revealing that he has been privately dealing with the diagnosis and taking steps to resolve it with the support of his loved ones.

The show, which aired from 1998 through 2003 on The WB, was a staple of the late 90s and early 2000s. It followed the lives of a group of teenagers in the sleepy town of Capeside as they navigated love, friendship, and identity. Last year, Van Der Beek revealed his cancer diagnosis, stating that he has been making major lifestyle changes to manage his health.

The Dawson's Creek alum has been using his platform to raise awareness about cancer and its effects on mental health. In a recent Instagram post, he reflected on his journey, labeling it "What Cancer Taught Me." He opened up about how coming face-to-face with mortality had forced him to redefine who he is and find a new sense of purpose.

Social media exploded immediately after, with one fan calling the moment 'every millennial's dream'

As he pondered his identity, Van Der Beek asked himself, "If I am just a too-skinny, weak guy, alone in an apartment with cancer, what am I?" He meditated on this question until he received a profound answer: "I am worthy of God's love simply because I exist. And if I'm worthy of God's love, shouldn't I also be worthy of my own?"

The Dawson's Creek alum encouraged his fans to incorporate this message into their lives, regardless of their beliefs. As for the kiss that stole the headlines, it seems like Jackson and Philipps are still feeling the spark. Who knows what the future holds for these two iconic characters? One thing is certain – their on-screen chemistry is still sizzling hot.

Sources:

The event benefitted James Van Der Beek's F Cancer initiative, as the actor battles stage 3 colorectal cancer

  • thescholarlynote.com
  • thescholarlynote.com
  • thescholarlynote.com

The entire cast of Dawson's Creek reunited for the first time in 22 years at the Richard Rodgers Theatre for a live reading of the show's pilot episode to benefit F Cancer (seen in 1997)