Michelle Williams Stands By ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Co-Star James Van Der Beek In ‘All Ways’ Amid His Cancer Battle

Apr 15, 2025 by apost team

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Michelle Williams, 44, revealed she has remained in contact with her longtime friend and former “Dawson’s Creek” co-star James Van Der Beek, 48, as he navigates a serious health battle. The pair, who rose to fame together on the hit series that aired from 1998 to 2003, have maintained a connection over the years – one that has taken on deeper meaning in the face of Van Der Beek’s cancer diagnosis.

Williams portrayed Jen Lindley on “Dawson’s Creek” for five seasons, though her feelings about the show have been complicated. In a 2019 conversation with Patricia Clarkson for Variety’s “Actors on Actors,” she reflected on the restrictive nature of early television work. 

She said “Dawson’s Creek” felt “a little bit like a factory job” and “formulaic.” Williams also admitted she wasn’t “yearning to repeat” the experience, explaining, “I didn’t want to be told what to do.” She added: “I don’t think I’ve done television between then and now because of a fear of loss of input.”

Van Der Beek, for his part, opened up about reconnecting with former castmates like Williams, Katie Holmes, and Joshua Jackson. On Jana Kramer’s “Whine Down” podcast on Spotify, he shared: “We all went our separate ways and, you know, just didn’t speak for years because we’re just living our lives and doing our thing.” But now, he said, that’s changed. Reconnecting has been “so great,” and he reflected warmly on their growth: “‘Oh, wow. I love who you’ve become.’”

In November 2024, Van Der Beek revealed to PEOPLE that he had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The diagnosis came in August 2024, marking the beginning of an arduous journey. Since then, he has been moved by the outpouring of love and support from those around him. 

Van Der Beek opened up bout life after the diagnosis.

“It was amazing,” the actor stated, continuing, “I’m never the person who asked for any help – ever. It’s not in my DNA. And I thought that was a fine way to be until cancer. The way friends showed up was such a beautiful experience – and I would never have otherwise seen how much people care about me.”

The emotional weight of sharing his diagnosis made the support even more powerful. Van Der Beek admitted the vulnerability was difficult. He stated:

“I’m an empath. I like to take care of everybody. I’m a provider, and especially at that point, I was trying to be Superman and be all things to all people and be a dad and a provider.” The actor continued: “And so to have to tell people and my father and my siblings and my kids, it was really tricky.”

While Williams and Van Der Beek may have wrapped “Dawson’s Creek” more than two decades ago, their connection hasn’t faded – especially in light of Van Der Beek’s recent health challenges. When Entertainment Tonight asked Williams about her former co-star, she made it clear that she’s been emotionally present during his cancer journey. Williams said:

“We’re in contact, and he’s in our hearts and our minds, and he knows that.” The actress continued: “And we’re here for him in every and all ways.”

Despite the challenges, Van Der Beek has embraced the healing power of connection – both with his loved ones and old friends like Williams. Their continued friendship offers a glimpse of light during what has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging chapters of his life.

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Michelle Williams and James Van Der Beek’s enduring bond proves that real friendship lasts. Who else do you think has stayed close since their “Dawson’s Creek” days? Let us know, and then pass it along to fans of the show!