James Van Der Beek opened up about his battle with colorectal cancer during an interview with Craig Melvin on TODAY, reassuring fans that he is feeling well and continuing his acting career. The conversation, which took place at Van Der Beek’s ranch in Texas, highlighted his experience with the illness and how his family has been coping with the challenges it has brought.
The 48-year-old actor, known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, revealed that he was diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer last year. His absence from a recent reunion event for the series sparked concern, but he clarified that he missed the occasion due to a bout of stomach bugs, not cancer complications. “I feel much, much better than I did a couple months ago,” Van Der Beek stated during the interview that aired on December 19, 2023. He described his journey as longer and more demanding than expected, requiring patience and resilience.
Van Der Beek initially did not suspect he had a serious illness, as he had been in excellent health prior to his diagnosis. He engaged in various health practices, including cold plunges and saunas. However, subtle symptoms prompted him to seek medical advice, leading to a colonoscopy that ultimately revealed his cancer diagnosis. “I went into shock,” he recalled, reflecting on the moment he learned the news.
He emphasized the importance of early detection, urging others over age 45 to pursue colorectal cancer screenings. “If anybody takes anything away from this interview, it would be get tested, talk to your doctor,” he advised. He suspects that earlier screening could have led to an earlier diagnosis in his case.
The support of his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, has been pivotal throughout his treatment. She has taken on multiple roles, from caregiver to head of the household, as they navigate this challenging period with their six children, aged 4 to 15. Van Der Beek noted that the family has been open about his condition, allowing for honest conversations. “Kids know if you’re not right. They want to know,” he shared.
Despite the difficulties, he has gained a new perspective on life. Van Der Beek expressed that cancer has forced him to appreciate the present moment and prioritize self-love. “Presence I think is really the gift that cancer has given me,” he explained, noting the lifestyle changes he has made.
On the professional front, Van Der Beek recently completed filming a prequel series to Legally Blonde, which will be available on Amazon Prime Video. He expressed enthusiasm for upcoming acting opportunities and mentioned his desire to return to Broadway, a passion he holds dearly.
As he navigates his health challenges, Van Der Beek remains focused on his faith. “After cancer, I feel like a connection to God is kind of the whole point of this exercise on this planet,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of relationships and personal growth in his journey.
With a renewed outlook on life and gratitude for his family’s support, Van Der Beek’s story serves as a reminder of resilience in the face of adversity.
