James Van Der Beek Health Update – Dawson’s Creek Reunion

James Van Der Beek Makes Surprise Dawson’s Creek Reunion Appearance – Latest Update

James Van Der Beek Joins Dawson’s Creek Reunion Virtually After Illness

James Van Der Beek made a surprise virtual appearance at the Dawson’s Creek reunion charity event on Monday, September 22, 2025, after initially canceling due to illness.

The 48-year-old actor, who revealed a colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024, was unable to attend the event in person at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City. Instead, a pre-recorded video of Van Der Beek was played on stage, where he thanked fans, praised his former castmates, and introduced Lin-Manuel Miranda as his understudy for the live reading.

“I’ve been looking forward to this night for months,” Van Der Beek said in the video. “I can’t believe I’m not there to see my beautiful cast in person, but thank you to everyone supporting this cause. You are the best fans in the world.”

Event Highlights

The reunion brought together original cast members including Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, Kerr Smith, Meredith Monroe, Busy Philipps, Mary Beth Peil, John Wesley Shipp, Mary-Margaret Humes, and Nina Repeta.

Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, attended with their children, who joined the cast in singing Paula Cole’s iconic theme song “I Don’t Want To Wait.”

The event, directed by Jason Moore and produced by Carl Ogawa, Thomas Kail, Maggie Brohn, Kevin Williamson, Greg Berlanti, and Williams, raised funds for the nonprofit F Cancer and highlighted Van Der Beek’s ongoing health journey.

James Van Der Beek’s Health Journey

Van Der Beek first shared his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis in late 2024. At the time, he described the battle as “scary and overwhelming” but urged others facing similar challenges to “go easy on yourself—you got this.”

Speaking about his recovery, he added: “I’ve really been blessed with my wife and kids. I’ve got a lot to live for, and it’s a beautiful life.”

FAQs

Why did James Van Der Beek miss the reunion?
He announced on September 21 that he was battling two stomach viruses and could not appear live.

Who replaced him during the live reading?
Lin-Manuel Miranda stepped in as his understudy, which Van Der Beek joked his kids would see as an “upgrade.”

Reunions of beloved TV shows continue to draw massive fan attention, especially when tied to meaningful causes. For Van Der Beek, the Dawson’s Creek reunion was not only a nostalgic moment but also a reminder of his resilience as he navigates his health journey.

As of now, James Van Der Beek remains focused on recovery, with fans and colleagues showing strong support for his ongoing fight.