Dawson’s Creek actor reveals cancer diagnosis
Actor James Van Der Beek has revealed he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
The 47-year-old, best known for his roles in the TV show Dawson’s Creek and the film Varsity Blues, shared his diagnosis and treatment journey with People magazine.
“I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been dealing with this privately and have been taking steps toward recovery,” he told the publication.
Van Der Beek expressed optimism about his prognosis and said he is “feeling good.”
BBC News has contacted the actor’s representative for further comment.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, colorectal cancer often begins as growths in the colon’s lining and can spread if untreated. This cancer type is more common in men than women, but early detection through increased screenings has reduced the mortality rate.
Van Der Beek rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s, notably playing Dawson Leery in the popular series Dawson’s Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003.
He also played a fictionalised version of himself in the cult television show Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, and he performed on the 28th US season of Dancing with the Stars.
Van Der Beek has continued working through his diagnosis.
He has two projects in production, including a Tubi original film called Sidelined: The QB and Me, which is due to come out later this month.
