James Van Der Beek, the beloved actor known for his roles in iconic television series, has recently revealed that he has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. At 47 years old, Van Der Beek shared this significant news exclusively, stating, “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.”
Despite the challenges posed by his diagnosis, Van Der Beek expressed a sense of hope and positivity, adding, “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.” Colorectal cancer, as defined by the American Cancer Society, originates in the colon or rectum, which are integral parts of the large intestine within the digestive system.
In the face of his health struggles, Van Der Beek has continued to work actively. He recently appeared in an episode of the popular series Walker and is set to star in the upcoming Tubi original film Sidelined: The QB and Me, which is scheduled for release on November 29.
Family remains a central focus for Van Der Beek during this time. He is married to Kimberly Van Der Beek, and together they share six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah. Earlier this year, the family enjoyed a memorable trip to Egypt, which Van Der Beek documented on social media. He shared stunning photos of their adventures, including moments with camels and visits to the Egyptian pyramids.
In his heartfelt Instagram post, he reflected on the experience, writing, “#Egypt… With all my vocabulary, ‘Wow’ is what fell out of my mouth most of the time. We were gifted a magical experience, one I’m still processing – and might be for the rest of my life. The kids were rock stars, my friends became brothers, and despite all the travel and time zone crossing and early-morning alarms, I feel recharged.” This trip seems to have provided a much-needed respite for the family amidst the ongoing challenges.
In addition to his acting projects, Van Der Beek is also set to participate in a special event titled The Real Full Monty, airing in December. This two-hour special aims to raise awareness about prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research. Alongside Van Der Beek, the event will feature other male celebrities, including actor Taye Diggs, Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, and longtime Dancing with the Stars judge Bruno Tonioli.
The initiative is particularly significant as it not only showcases the vulnerabilities of these public figures but also emphasizes the importance of early detection and awareness regarding these types of cancers. As Van Der Beek continues to navigate his diagnosis, his involvement in such projects highlights his commitment to raising awareness and supporting cancer research.
As news of his diagnosis spreads, fans and supporters have rallied around Van Der Beek, sending messages of love and encouragement. The actor’s openness about his health journey serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.
James Van Der Beek’s story is a poignant reminder of the importance of family, hope, and the ongoing fight against cancer. His journey reflects not only his personal battle but also the collective effort to raise awareness and support those affected by similar health challenges.
As he moves forward with his treatment and projects, many will be watching closely, hoping for the best outcome for the actor and his family.
