James Van Der Beek just dropped a life update that’s more intense than any plot twist on the creek! The beloved 47-year-old actor, known for having one of the most meme-worthy cry faces in TV history, revealed to People that he’s been grappling with a pretty big opponent: colorectal cancer.
“I have colorectal cancer,” he said, probably with more poise than any of us would muster. But don’t cue the sad music just yet—James has a silver lining to share. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good,” he added. And if anyone’s rooting for him, it’s his huge family—wife Kimberly and their six kids (yes, SIX): Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah. Talk about a built-in cheer squad!
And while he’s tackling this health journey like a pro, he’s also not slowing down on the acting front. James has been keeping busy on set, because hey, cancer doesn’t mean he’s calling it quits on his career! Recently, he popped up in Walker—because, of course, he’s still here to wow us on screen. And on November 29, he’ll star in Sidelined: The QB and Me, a Tubi original, which sounds just dramatic enough to get our popcorn ready. Not to mention, in December, he’s set to appear on The Real Full Monty, a two-hour event where James and some other brave (and bold) celebs will strip down—yes, you read that right—to raise awareness for men’s cancer testing. Forget method acting; this is dedication.
Joining him for this “au naturel” event are Taye Diggs, Chris Jones, and the king of pizzazz himself, Bruno Tonioli. Now, if that lineup doesn’t make you want to tune in, we don’t know what will.
James is truly leaning on family and staying positive. Between battling cancer, managing six kiddos, and taking the occasional movie role, it’s safe to say he’s juggling a lot more than just lines and lighting these days. Here’s wishing the man who gave us all those memorable Dawson’s Creek moments all the health and happiness as he kicks cancer to the curb—cry face optional!
