Actor James Van Der Beek has publicly shared his diagnosis of colorectal cancer, shedding light on his health struggles during a recent interview with People Magazine.

In a candid revelation, the 47-year-old actor stated, “I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.” He expressed a sense of hope, saying, “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.” This statement not only reflects his personal journey but also serves to inspire others facing similar challenges.

James Van Der Beek attends Operation Smile’s 11th annual Celebrity Ski and Smile Challenge presented by Alphapals, Barefoot Dreams and the St. Regis Deer Valley on April 1, 2023 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images for Operation Smile)

Colorectal cancer, which originates in the colon or rectum, ranks among the most severe forms of cancer, affecting thousands each year. The journey of coping with this disease can be daunting and often overwhelming for both patients and their families.

While specific details about Van Der Beek’s condition remain undisclosed, statistics indicate that the five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer patients is approximately 64%. This figure highlights the importance of early detection and treatment, which can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for those diagnosed.

James Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly, are proud parents of six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah. Balancing family life amidst such a critical health challenge speaks volumes about their resilience and commitment to each other.

Best known for his iconic role in Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek continues to evolve as an actor. He recently made a guest appearance on the show Walker and is set to star in Sidelined: The QB and Me, a Tubi original film premiering on November 29. His ongoing work in the entertainment industry showcases his dedication to his craft, even during personal trials.

James Van Der Beek, fashion detail, attends the 71st Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 22, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Following the release of his interview, Van Der Beek issued a heartfelt statement on social media, apologizing to friends and family who learned of his diagnosis through the news. He noted, “Each year, approximately 2 billion people around the world receive this diagnosis. And I’m one of them,” emphasizing the widespread impact of cancer on families and communities.

He expressed the difficulty of navigating such personal news, stating, “There’s no playbook for how to announce these things, but I’d planned on talking about it at length with People Magazine at some point soon… to raise awareness and tell my story on my own terms.” This highlights the importance of controlling the narrative around personal health challenges.

Van Der Beek continued, sharing his experience of managing the diagnosis privately, stating, “I’ve been dealing with this privately until now, getting treatment and dialing in my overall health with greater focus than ever before. I’m in a good place and feeling strong.” His positive mindset amidst adversity serves as an encouragement for others facing similar situations.

He further addressed the unexpected timing of the news, explaining, “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.” This perspective reflects a hopeful outlook on life’s challenges.

Van Der Beek expressed gratitude for the support from his family and fans, stating, “Please know that my family and I deeply appreciate all the love and support.” Such expressions of gratitude can be vital for emotional healing during tough times.

James Van Der Beek attends the 2019 iHeartRadio Music Festival at T-Mobile Arena on September 20, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Isaac Brekken/Getty Images for iHeartMedia)

Looking ahead, Van Der Beek is scheduled to participate in The Real Full Monty, a special event aimed at raising awareness for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research. This initiative emphasizes the importance of early detection and encourages others to take proactive steps regarding their health.

Throughout this challenging period, the actor is prioritizing quality time with his family, striving to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the upheaval. “I made all my own costumes growing up,” he reminisced in a Halloween post, sharing a moment with his spouse and children while trick-or-treating. “Didn’t really have a choice. But I loved it. Should probably have been the first warning sign to my parents that I would end up an actor.” This light-hearted reflection showcases his enduring spirit and connection to creativity.

We extend our heartfelt wishes for strength and recovery to James Van Der Beek during this challenging time.