James Van Der Beek opens up about stage 3 cancer battle and staying optimistic: "I’m feeling good"

James Van Der Beek shares his stage 3 cancer journey, revealing struggles, support and hope for recovery.

James Van Der Beek has opened up about his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, sharing his journey with honesty and hope. The Dawson’s Creek star, 48, first revealed his diagnosis in November 2024, expressing gratitude for his family’s support as he undergoes treatment.

“Each year, approximately 2 billion people around the world receive this diagnosis. And I’m one of them,” Van Der Beek shared in an Instagram post, assuring fans that he was “in a good place and feeling strong.”

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by James Van Der Beek (@vanderjames)

Recalling his initial diagnosis, he explained that a routine colonoscopy in the summer of 2023 led to the discovery. “As I was coming out of the haze, the gastroenterologist said in his most pleasant bedside manner, ‘It is cancer,’” he said, admitting he was in shock.

Despite the challenges, Van Der Beek has remained resilient. “I really didn’t feel like this was gonna end me,” he shared. “This is gonna be the biggest life redirect. I’m gonna make changes that I never would have made otherwise.”

His wife, Kimberly, has been his rock throughout the journey. “I’m more grateful than ever to my superhuman wife who has shown up on levels I never knew possible,” he wrote in a heartfelt Instagram tribute. The couple, who married in 2010, share six children, all of whom have shown unwavering support.

Photo: Instagram

Van Der Beek also used his journey to raise awareness, selling limited editions of his Varsity Blues jersey to support families affected by cancer. He also participated in The Real Full Monty to encourage early testing and research funding.

Looking ahead, he remains cautiously optimistic. “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,” he said. “I have a lot to live for.”