Joshua Jackson has finally settled the age-old debate of whether he is Team Pacey or Team Dawson. The 46-year-old actor, known for his role as Pacey Witter in the iconic teen drama series “Dawson’s Creek,” recently spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about his steadfast allegiance to his character, Pacey. Despite the show ending over two decades ago, Jackson remains firm in his choice. In a recent interview discussing his role as Dr. Max Bankman in the medical drama “Doctor Odyssey,” Jackson did not hesitate to proclaim, “I’m Team Pacey.”
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“Dawson’s Creek” aired from 1998 to 2003, captivating audiences with the lives of a group of friends in the fictional town of Capeside, Massachusetts. Alongside Jackson’s character, Pacey Witter, the series starred James Van Der Beek as Dawson Leery and Katie Holmes as Joey Potter, with Michelle Williams also rounding out the core group as Jen Lindley. The show’s intricate relationships and love triangles kept fans hooked, particularly the dynamic between Pacey, Dawson, and Joey.
As the series neared its end, viewers speculated on the ultimate romantic resolution for the characters. While many anticipated Joey would end up with Dawson, Joshua Jackson revealed that he advocated for a different outcome. In a 2022 interview with Entertainment Weekly, he shared his discussions with the show’s creator, Kevin Williamson, about the romantic fate of the characters. Jackson firmly believed that Joey ending up with Pacey would provide a more compelling and satisfying conclusion for the beloved characters.
James Van Der Beek, who portrayed Dawson Leery, also supported the idea of Joey ending up with Pacey. During a reunion with the cast in 2018, he expressed that the narrative choice felt right and made more sense to him. The chemistry between the characters and the actors themselves seemed to align with the decision to subvert the expected romantic pairing, adding depth to the show’s conclusion.
Beyond the romantic entanglements on screen, the camaraderie among the “Dawson’s Creek” cast members has endured over the years. In addition to Jackson, Van Der Beek, and Holmes, the series featured a talented ensemble including Mary-Margaret Humes, John Wesley Shipp, Mary Beth Peil, Nina Repeta, Kerr Smith, and Meredith Monroe. Busy Philipps also joined the cast in later seasons, contributing to the show’s enduring popularity.
Reflecting on his time filming “Dawson’s Creek,” Joshua Jackson fondly recalls the impact of the series on his career and personal life. He credits the show with shaping his acting journey and providing him with lifelong friendships. As fans continue to debate the Team Pacey versus Team Dawson dilemma, Jackson’s unwavering loyalty to his character reflects the lasting legacy of the beloved teen drama and its enduring themes of friendship, love, and personal growth.
The cultural significance of “Dawson’s Creek” continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the enduring appeal of well-crafted storytelling and memorable characters. Joshua Jackson’s recent affirmation of his allegiance to Pacey Witter serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of the series on both its viewers and its cast. As fans revisit the beloved show and its characters, the debate over Team Pacey or Team Dawson lives on, contributing to the enduring legacy of a beloved television classic.