The name "James" can refer to several different people. Here are profiles of a few notable individuals named James who have been in the news recently:
James Kennedy: James Kennedy is a reality television personality and DJ, known for his role on "Vanderpump Rules". Kennedy has been public about his struggles with alcohol addiction. He initially embraced sobriety in 2019 but has faced challenges in maintaining it. As of early 2024, he was reported to be sober again and attending therapy. Kennedy's journey with sobriety has been a significant part of his storyline on "Vanderpump Rules", impacting his relationships and behavior. He has acknowledged the positive impact of sobriety on his life and relationships.
LeBron James: LeBron James is a professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers and is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. At 41 years old, he continues to be a dominant force in the NBA. In early 2026, James provided an update on his health, stating that he was feeling good despite a demanding schedule of back-to-back games and a past sciatica injury. He has played in a majority of the Lakers' games this season, demonstrating his commitment to the sport.
James Van Der Beek: James Van Der Beek was an actor best known for his role in the television series "Dawson's Creek". He was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in late 2023 and publicly shared his diagnosis in November 2024. Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48, after battling cancer for over two years. In his last interview, given in December 2025, he shared that he was feeling better after a long journey with cancer. His family has set up a fundraiser to support his wife and six children following his death.