James Van Der Beek Shares New Update on His Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer Journey

James Van Der Beek Wears Iconic Varsity Blues Jersey to Raise Funds Amid Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer Battle

Hollywood star James Van Der Beek, best known for Dawson’s Creek, is currently navigating a difficult and very public battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He first revealed his diagnosis in November 2024, and as of late 2025, his treatment journey is still underway. The actor missed the Dawson’s Creek reunion earlier this year due to a mix of cancer-related issues and back-to-back stomach viruses, but his later virtual appearance gave fans a welcome sign of strength, resilience, and determination as he continues fighting the disease.

Since opening up about his condition, Van Der Beek has been remarkably candid. In his initial announcement, he shared, “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 also emphasized hope, adding, “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”

This year, he spoke even more openly about the day-to-day reality of living with cancer, describing it as a “full-time job.” Reflecting on the long road ahead, he explained, “I’m just on the journey… It’s a process. It’ll probably be a process for the rest of my life.” His honesty has resonated with many, especially those facing similar diagnoses.

What makes his story even more striking is that Van Der Beek considered himself in great health before his diagnosis—strong cardiovascular fitness, daily cold plunges, an active lifestyle, and no dramatic symptoms. The only red flag was a small but persistent change in his bowel habits, something he initially dismissed as a reaction to his morning coffee. When the issue didn’t resolve, he scheduled a colonoscopy, which ultimately revealed the cancer.

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Doctors classify his case as early-onset colorectal cancer, meaning it developed before the traditional screening age. Unfortunately, this is a growing trend in the U.S.: early-onset colorectal cancer rates have doubled since the early 1990s, and researchers have warned that many younger adults with no obvious risk factors are now being diagnosed with more advanced disease. It's a shift that has deeply concerned the medical community.

When it comes to prognosis, clinical data paints a nuanced picture. Patients with early-stage colorectal cancer (stages I–II) often have excellent outcomes, with five-year survival rates between 90–95%. For stage III cases like Van Der Beek’s, outcomes remain hopeful: major studies show an average five-year survival rate of about 74% when treatment is started promptly and aggressively. Still, several factors influence success, including lymph node involvement, the biological behavior of the tumor, how completely it is removed during surgery, and how well a patient responds to chemotherapy.

Treatment itself can be grueling. Chemotherapy often brings fatigue, nausea, suppressed immunity, and other long-term side effects. And even for patients who respond well, the risk of recurrence is always present—especially if the cancer is more aggressive or was detected later.

Through all of this, Van Der Beek hasn’t been fighting alone. His wife, Kimberly, and their six children—ranging from toddlers to teens—have been by his side from day one. He has often said that this battle isn’t his alone; it affects the entire family emotionally, mentally, and even logistically. Their support system has become a central part of his strength, illustrating both the heavy toll of cancer and the power of showing up for loved ones in vulnerable moments.