“Dawson’s Creek” actor Obi Ndefo has died at the age of 51, his family said.

The American actor, who starred in the teen drama between 1998 and 2002, died on Wednesday after his “heart failed during his long-term battle with the eating disorder orthorexia,” his sister Nkem Ndefo wrote on Instagram.

“As his family, we share this news to raise awareness of the severity of orthorexia and in the hope that those suffering from this devastating disease receive the compassionate care they deserve,” she added.

Orthorexia is an eating disorder characterized by a compulsion to consume high-quality, nutritious foods, often resulting in an extremely restricted diet.

Ndefo, who also starred in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “Stargate SG-1,” had to have both legs amputated in 2019 after a hit-and-run accident in Los Angeles.

Katie Holmes, also of “Dawson’s Creek” and Joey Potter, paid tribute to Ndefo on Instagram, writing: “He was wonderful to work with and such a kind man. Sending prayers and gratitude to his family. Rest in peace.”

Mary-Margaret Humes, who played the mother of Dawson Leery (James Van Der Beek) in the show, wrote: “These words are not easy for me to say. I find it hard to accept that you have left us, my dear friend.”

“You were and always will be a shining light. What an example of pure, unfiltered love and perseverance you have been as you have faced life’s challenges of late.

“I will cherish all of our messages of love and support for each other over the years. Rest in peace, sweet warrior.”

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A GoFundMe page set up by Ndefo’s family has raised more than $287,000 (£218,385) to cover the cost of prosthetic legs and necessary surgery, as well as to adapt his home to be wheelchair accessible.

The fundraising page’s description, signed by Ndefo’s mother, Susan Matranga, detailed how the actor was shopping on Beverly Boulevard after a yoga class when he was hit by a drunk driver in an SUV.

“According to first responders and orthopedic surgeons, it is an absolute miracle that Obi survived,” the report said. Despite his operations, Ndefo managed to “smile and convey positive energy to everyone.”

Updates on the page detailed how Ndefo continued to practice yoga after losing his legs.

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In December 2020, he sent an update of his own, writing: “It has been challenging, but WE ALL FACE UNIQUE CHALLENGES that present opportunities to make us stronger.

“My thanks go to everyone who helped me transition into a new phase of my life and strengthened my commitment as an artist and educator.”