James Van Der Beek reveals colorectal cancer diagnosis: “There is reason for optimism”

Dawsons Creek actor James Van Der Beek revealed that he had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and has been processing the news privately.

“I have colorectal cancer. I have been dealing with this diagnosis privately and have taken steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he shared People.

However, Van Der Beek added: “There is reason for optimism and I feel good.”

Colorectal cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. This type of cancer affects the colon and digestive system, with a lifetime risk for men of 1 in 23. Early versions of the disease start as non-cancerous forms called polyps.

Despite the diagnosis, Van Deer Beek has a full slate ahead of him: In June, Deadline exclusively reported that he had signed on to star in Offside: the QB and mean upcoming Tubi Original based on Wattpad’s breakthrough YA novel The QB Bad Boy and me by Tay Marley. The actor also recently appeared in an episode of Hiker.

Van Der Beek will perform in December The real FullMontya two-hour special also featuring Taye Diggs, Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones and veteran Dancing with the stars review Bruno Tonioli as they strip naked to raise awareness for prostate, testicular and colorectal cancer testing and research.

Van Der Beek is best known for his role as the title character in the film Dawsons Creekwhich ran for six seasons on The WB from 1998 to 2003. His other credits include Varsity Blues, The Rules of Attraction, Pose, How I Met Your Mother In One Tree Hill. The actor also portrayed himself in the sitcom Don’t trust the B– in apartment 23.