James Van Der Beek has revealed his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. The Dawson’s Creek actor publicly shared his diagnosis on November 3, 2024.
James Van Der Beek Revealed His Cancer Diagnosis
James announced the news of his cancer diagnosis in a statement to People.
“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 told the outlet.
“There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good,” he added.
James also shared a post on Instagram about his diagnosis shortly after.
“‘It is cancer…’ Each year, approximately 2 billion people around the world receive this diagnosis. And I’m one of them,” he wrote. “There’s no playbook for how announce these things,” he added, sharing that he wanted to “tell my story on my own terms.” However, James said “that plan had to be altered” earlier that morning when he learned the news of his diagnosis would be made public.
“I’ve been dealing with this privately until now, getting treatment and dialing in my overall health with greater focus than ever before,” the Dancing With the Stars alum added. “I’m in a good place and feeling strong. It’s been quite the initiation, and I’ll tell you more when I’m ready.”
“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,” the statement concluded. “Please know that my family and I deeply appreciate all the love and support.”
A few days after sharing his diagnosis with the world, James explained that he first experienced changes in his bowel movements in the summer of 2023. However, he initially just thought it was issues related to his diet.
“I thought maybe I needed to stop coffee,” he told People. “Or maybe not put cream in the coffee. But when I cut that out and it didn’t improve, I thought, ‘All right, I better get this checked out.’”
He then underwent a colonoscopy, where he was met with the unexpected news.
“I felt really good coming out of anesthesia, that I’d finally done it,” the Pose actor said. “Then the gastroenterologist said — in his most pleasant bedside manner — that it was cancer. I think I went into shock.”
James did not share specific details about his treatments or his recovery. Despite everything he has been going through with his health, James is still looking at life with hope.
“I’m very cautiously optimistic. I’m in a place of healing, my energy levels are great,” he said. “When I’ve been out of the woods completely for what feels like a responsible amount of time, I’ll circle back and let you know.”
“I have a lot to live for,” he added.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
“Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. These cancers can also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start,” according to the American Cancer Society. “Colon cancer and rectal cancer are often grouped together because they have many features in common.”
According to the organization, “most colorectal cancers start as a growth on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.” These growths, called polyps, don’t always cause symptoms.
It is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the U.S., and the risk of colorectal cancer increases with age.
James Van Der Beek’s Wife Spoke Out After His Diagnosis
James has been married to his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, since 2010. They share six kids, Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.
Kimberly commented on James’ Instagram post about his diagnosis, writing, “I love you baby.” Several other celebrities voiced their support for the star amid his health battle.
“Praying for you and your beautiful family, James. And I’m sorry you didn’t get to tell the world when you wanted to,” Yvette Nicole Brown commented.
“All my love always and forever partner,” Emma Slater, who competed with James on DWTS, wrote.
“Love You and your most beautiful family so very much and sending all the love strength and healing,” Rachel Zoe said.
