James Van Der Beek's 2-Year Colorectal Cancer Journey, 'Dawson's Creek' Star Provides Health Update

Actor, James Van Der Beek has dedicated over three decades of his life to the Hollywood industry, impressing fans with offerings like Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 and Dawson's Creek. Beyond the entertaining figure on screen, the man in real life has been suffering from a serious illness. James Van Der Been has been battling stage 3 colorectal cancer for over 2 years now. The actor often opened up about his cancer journey and provided health updates to his fans. Here's a recounting of his inspirational story from his latest virtual charity event appearance.

James Van Der Beek's surprise virtual appearance in the Dawson's Creek reunion charity event

James Van Der Beek recently made a surprise virtual appearance at the Dawson's Creek reunion charity event on September 22, 2025. It thrilled his fans and co-stars as they got to see him after a long time, even if it wasn't in person. The reunion of the characters of the six-season series made fans of the franchise happy; however, James' absence was felt. He had to cancel his attendance through an Instagram post a day before the event. The 48-year-old announced he felt 'gutted' to miss the event due to two separate stomach viruses.

The event was held in New York to raise money for a cancer organisation and to honour James Van Der Beek. Although he failed to attend the event, he thanked everyone who helped put it together and the fans who attended. James' wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, who was present, posted an emotional message on Instagram, calling the event a 'healing' experience and sharing a picture with the Dawson's Creek alums. Kimberly's presence might have filled the void left by James to some extent.

James Van Der Beek's 2-year cancer-battling journey

James Van Der Beek told PEOPLE that he was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at age 46 in August 2023. The actor was a little taken aback to have contracted the illness, despite having no family history of the same and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He initially kept his battle 'private' and was fighting the disease with his immense mental strength and support from his 'incredible family'. Recently, he developed two stomach viruses and was therefore unable to travel to the Dawson's Creek reunion charity event, despite being very eager to see his co-stars and fans after a long time.

James Van Der Beek's early symptoms and diagnosis

Van Der Beek began experiencing minor irregularities in his bowel movements in the summer of 2023. He initially attempted to fix the issue by cutting coffee from his diet. When his bowel movements did not improve, he saw a doctor and underwent a colonoscopy. He was shocked to learn he had stage 3 cancer because he felt he was in excellent health and was an active person. He mentioned being a 'sobbing, terrified mess' back then; however, he later felt a sense of redirection, believing the diagnosis would prompt positive life changes.

James Van Der Beek continued working despite undergoing cancer treatment

The actor described living with cancer as a 'full-time job', involving numerous appointments and lifestyle adjustments. Despite his treatments, he continued to work, noting that "cancer doesn't exist between action and cut." In July 2025, he joined the cast of the upcoming Legally Blonde prequel series, Elle. Beyond the keto diet and exercises, the pillar of support behind James' strong mindset was the immense support he has received from his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. He opened up about the same, calling them his 'safe space'.

What are your thoughts on James Van Der Beek's 2-year colorectal cancer journey? Let us know.

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