James Van Der Beek, well-known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, has revealed that he has received a bowel cancer diagnosis.
The 47-year-old American actor, renowned for portraying Dawson Leery in the popular drama series, disclosed to People magazine on Sunday that he has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
Bowel cancer, often referred to as colorectal cancer, initiates in the colon or rectum, comprising the large intestine in the digestive system.
According to Cancer Research UK, it ranks among the most prevalent forms of cancer in the UK, with approximately 42,900 new cases diagnosed annually.
In his conversation with People, Van Der Beek shared: “I’ve been managing this diagnosis in private and actively seeking resolution with the support of my amazing family.”
“There is cause for hope, and I feel good.”
He noted that he has been focusing on spending quality time with his spouse Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah.
The actor, who is also recognized for roles in Don’t Trust The B—- In Apartment 23, CSI: Cyber, and the FX drama Pose, shared his diagnosis on Instagram as well.
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Van Der Beek mentioned he intended to discuss the matter in detail with People magazine at a later date, but opted to share the information on Sunday morning “after learning that a tabloid was going to break the story.”
He further stated: “I have been handling this privately up until now, receiving treatment and focusing more closely than ever on my overall well-being.”
“I am in a positive space and feeling empowered. It has been quite an experience, and I will share more when I am ready.”
In December, Van Der Beek is set to feature in the Fox special The Real Full Monty, where male celebrities will strip down to raise awareness for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer screenings and research initiatives.