What happened to James Van Der Beek? Dawson's Creek stars colorectal cancer battle, explored 

Aashna
James Van Der Beek in Dawson
James Van Der Beek in Dawson's Creek (Image via Hulu)

James Van Der Beek, the beloved Dawson's Creek star, has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and has been dealing with it in private. The star opened up about this tragic news via Instagram and confirmed it in person with People Magazine.

The 47-year-old star played Dawson Leery on Dawson's Creek from 1998 to 2003, and for this role, he gained immense fame and recognition. His other co-stars include Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson, Mary-Margaret Humes, John Wesley Shipp, and Busy Philipps on the show.

While there is no confirmation about how long the actor has been dealing with cancer, James Van Der Beek has not shared many details about his cancer but is optimistic and dealing with it at his own pace.

The actor will also appear in many new projects that are currently in post-production. The following story covers everything about his announcement about cancer.


James Van Der Beek diagnosed with colorectal cancer

The actor took to his Instagram to announce this news to his fans, friends, and family.

However, James Van Der Beek did not want to announce his cancer via an Instagram post,

“...I’d planned on talking about it at length with People magazine at some point soon… to raise awareness and tell my story on my own terms. But that plan had to be altered early this morning when I was informed that a tabloid was going to run with the news.”

The actor has expressed disappointment on how he was not allowed to break this news according to his timeline. Since then, many fans and friends have been sending their good wishes for a speedy recovery.

He also apologized to his close friends and family in the caption because he couldn't share this news more personally with them. The actor then confirmed this news in person with the People magazine-

“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 also expressed optimism about this obstacle and said that he is in good spirits and fighting the cancer bravely. He plans to remain positive and focus on a healthy lifestyle, along with fulfilling his professional commitments towards his upcoming projects.


What is colorectal cancer?

colorectal cancer, which develops from growths in the colon’s inner lining. The symptoms of the same include drastic and unexplained weight loss, blood in stool, bloating, fatigue, vomiting and nausea, abdominal pain, and change in bowel movements.

Surgery is the most common and effective treatment for colorectal cancer. According to a report by the U.S. National Cancer Institute, 90% of people were treated successfully with surgery after being detected with this cancer in earlier stages.

The star will also make an appearance on The Real Full Monty, a charity for cancer awareness, where he and many stars like Anthony Anderson, Taye Diggs, Tyler Posey, and Bruno Tonioli will strip bare to raise awareness about various kinds of cancers.

In recent years. James Van Der Beek has appeared in projects like CSI: Cyber, Modern Family, and Pose. His latest movie will be released on November 29, 2024, on Tubi, titled Sidelined: The QB and Me.


For the latest scoops on your favorite TV shows and movies, follow SoapCentral

comment icon
Comment
Edited by Abhimanyu Sharma