James Van Der Beek Reveals Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis

James Van Der Beek has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, the Dawson’s Creek actor revealed in a new interview.

The 47-year-old actor announced his cancer battle to People, “I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.

The Varsity Blues star didn’t elaborate on the diagnosis or his prognosis, but added, “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer “starts in the colon or the rectum.” “Most colorectal cancers start as a growth on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. These growths are called polyps,” the ACS continued. “If cancer forms in a polyp, it can grow into the wall of the colon or rectum over time.”
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People adds that, despite Van Der Beek’s diagnosis, he’s remained active with his acting career, including a Tubi movie titled Sidelined: The QB and Me that’s due out later this month.

Additionally, the actor will take part in the two-hour The Real Full Monty, where male celebrities will strip down to raise awareness for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research. Van Der Beek’s participation in that Dec. 9 special — which will also feature Anthony Anderson and Taye Diggs — was announced back in May.