Joshua Jackson Pens Heartfelt Tribute to “Dawson’s Creek” Co-Star Katie Holmes
Fans of the iconic teen drama Dawson’s Creek have been treated to a delightful surprise, as actor Joshua Jackson has shared a touching “appreciation post” for his longtime friend, ex-partner, and former co-star, Katie Holmes. The pair, both 47, who famously portrayed the slow-burn couple Pacey Witter and Joey Potter on the beloved series, also shared a romantic relationship for approximately one year between 1998 and 1999. Decades later, they’ve not only reconnected but have also collaborated once again on an upcoming film.
The new project, titled Happy Hours, sees Holmes taking on a multifaceted role as writer, director, and star. The movie centres on a former couple who serendipitously cross paths again, prompting them to contemplate whether reigniting their past relationship is a worthwhile endeavour.
Jackson took to social media to express his profound gratitude, accompanying his message with a beaming photograph of Holmes from the film’s premiere at the Tribeca Festival over the weekend.
“It takes many hands to make a movie. And I am thankful to every hand that touched this one. But… this is a Katie appreciation post,” Jackson wrote. He continued, highlighting Holmes’s influence: “It is because of her light that all those hands were brought together. Because of her, the generosity of her spirit, that she wanted to bring this wonderful, loving, hopeful story into the world.”
The actor also conveyed his appreciation for the chance to work alongside Holmes again, a full 22 years after Dawson’s Creek concluded its run in 2003.
“She is such an incredible friend that she made the space for us to be able to play together again after all these years,” Jackson remarked. He reflected on their early days on set: “I was amazed when we were kids and she was the bravest, most raw of us telling the truth in every moment. And I am amazed now to watch her as a leader, with the same commitment to kindness, strength through compassion, to truth and the essential hopefulness of existence.”
The heartfelt post resonated deeply with fans, who flooded the comments section with their delight.
- “Beautifully said… I love how close you both still are, in a world full of chaos, your friendship is priceless,” one fan commented.
- “Such beautiful words. You two really have an entire not-so-small crowd smiling in the background because it’s impossible not to notice how special and deeply connected you are,” another shared.
- “Joey and Pacey forever!!!” a third fan exclaimed, echoing the enduring affection for their on-screen romance.
Jackson’s touching tribute follows a rather cosy display from the duo at the New York premiere of Happy Hours. They were seen holding hands on the red carpet while engaging with the media, further fuelling the nostalgic excitement among fans.
“The time that we spent together when we were young is very precious to both of us,” Jackson told Cherry the Geek TV. “And [it] is one of the core personal and professional relationships in my life.”
It’s worth noting that while Holmes and Jackson dated for about a year during the filming of Dawson’s Creek, their real-life romance had concluded by the time their characters, Joey and Pacey, finally got together on the series. This detail adds another layer to their enduring connection.
While a significant portion of the fanbase might harbour hopes of a real-life rekindling, it appears that their relationship has evolved into a strong and cherished friendship. This notion was further supported when, just the day after their film premiere, Jackson was photographed strolling arm-in-arm through New York City with model Olivia Burgess, underscoring the platonic nature of his bond with Holmes.
