At 47, ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Star James Van Der Beek Shares His Saddening Cancer Diagnosis

Nov 04, 2024

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Known for his role as Dawson Leery on the late 1990s teen drama series, “Dawson’s Creek,” actor James Van Der Beek has captivated audiences for decades with his charm and acting talent. 

Van Der Beek showcased versatility at the time, and he went on to have more roles in television and film following the hit show’s six-season run that ended in 2003. He went on to appear in “CSI: Cyber,” “How I Met Your Mother” and “One Tree Hill.” He also played a fictionalized version of himself in “Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23,” where he poked fun at himself and his Dawson persona for comic effect. 

Beyond television, Van Der Beek has made a home in Austin, Texas, with his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. Over the years, he’s shared glimpses of their family life on social media, where he’s amassed a following of fans who appreciate his warmth, authenticity and devotion to his loved ones. 

Despite his fame, Van Der Beek often speaks about prioritizing family over career and his choice to raise his children outside of Hollywood to provide them with a more grounded upbringing. Known for his vulnerability and openness, he’s been candid about the ups and downs of fatherhood and marriage, particularly in 2019, when he shared the heartbreaking news of his wife’s multiple miscarriages. 

In November 2024, People magazine confirmed that Van Der Beek was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. It was revealed that the 47-year-old actor has been managing the disease privately. Keep reading to learn more about Van Der Beek and his diagnosis. 

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer begins when polyps grow on the inner lining of a person’s colon or rectum. When cancer cells in the polyps develop, they grow in blood vessels or lymph vessels, providing passages to other lymph nodes and other distant parts of the body.

"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,” Van Der Beek confirmed to People magazine. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”

Van Der Beek also revealed his diagnosis in a courageous post on his Instagram account, assuring his friends and family that he’s receiving the best care possible and is undergoing treatment. 

“Apologies to all the people in my life who I’d planned on telling myself. Nothing about this process has occurred on my preferred timeline… But we roll with it, taking each surprise as a signpost, pointing us toward a greater destiny than we would have discovered without divine intervention,” he added.

Notably, Van Der Beek decided to go public with the news because he was informed that a tabloid would run with the news first. 

Despite the difficult news, Van Der Beek was unfazed as he celebrated Halloween with his family, as shown in an adorable Instagram post by his wife, Kimberly. 

Van Der Beek’s diagnosis was revealed as he prepares for his upcoming appearance in the television special “The Real Full Monty,” where male celebrities strip down to raise awareness for prostate, testicular and colorectal cancer testing and research.

We wish James Van Der Beek a speedy recovery! Are you a fan of the actor? What can you say about his update? Let us know, and pass this on to your family, friends and other James Van Der Beek fans out there.