James Van Der Beek has revealed he is battling colorectal cancer.
On Sunday, November 3, the 47-year-old Dawson’s Creek star shared the news in a statement. “I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he said via a rep to Just Jared. Despite the diagnosis, James remains hopeful. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good,” he added, showing resilience and a positive outlook.
James has continued to balance his work and personal life while undergoing treatment. Recently, he made a guest appearance on the popular show Walker, and he is set to star in Sidelined: The QB and Me, a Tubi original film premiering on November 29. He’s also gearing up to participate in The Real Full Monty, a two-hour special airing in December that aims to raise awareness for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research. Alongside James, celebrities like Taye Diggs, Chris Jones, and Bruno Tonioli will join the cause, with the stars performing a memorable striptease to spark conversations about men’s health issues.
Beyond his career, James is focusing on his family as he navigates this challenging journey. The actor shares six children with his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah. Spending quality time with his family has become a priority, as he finds comfort and strength in their love and support.
Van Der Beek’s optimism and dedication to raising awareness reflect his commitment to tackling this diagnosis head-on. His role in The Real Full Monty isn’t just another job; it’s a powerful opportunity to bring attention to colorectal cancer and the importance of early testing, especially for men. His honesty about his diagnosis has resonated with fans, many of whom have taken to social media to offer their support. The actor’s transparency and bravery continue to inspire others facing similar challenges.
We’re sending James Van Der Beek all the strength and support as he navigates this journey to recovery.
