“Dawson’s Creek” star James Van Der Beek shared a secret health struggle, calling it a challenge beyond his “preferred timeline” with moments of “divine intervention.”
Actor James Van Der Beek revealed his cancer diagnosis on November 3 in an emotional Instagram reel. The 47-year-old TV star, who had managed his illness privately, originally planned to share his story in a planned interview with People magazine.
James Van Der Beek visits the WarnerMedia Lodge at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City on January 24, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
However, he announced it early after learning that a tabloid intended to release the news. This prompted Van Der Beek to share his story in his own words. Shortly after his post, People confirmed that he had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer originates in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine within the digestive system.
James Van Der Beek’s Instagram reel, posted on November 3, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/vanderjames
Van Der Beek explained that he joins the nearly 2 billion people worldwide diagnosed with cancer each year. He assured followers that he is receiving treatment and focusing on his health.
“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,” he wrote, thanking supporters for their encouragement and care.
James Van Der Beek’s Instagram reel, posted on November 3, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/vanderjames
The TV star also apologized to close friends and family members who hadn’t yet heard about his diagnosis directly from him.
“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,” he said.
While Van Der Beek plans to share more about his experience in the future, his message reflects a commitment to raising awareness about the impact of cancer diagnoses.