Dawson’s Creek actor James Van Der Beek was open about his battle with colorectal cancer for months before his passing, during which he discussed one symptom he initially attributed to his coffee consumption.
The actor, also recognized for his performances in Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction, passed away at 48 on February 11, after being diagnosed with stage three colorectal cancer at 46.
The announcement of his passing was made by his family on Instagram, who conveyed that he ‘passed peacefully’ and faced his final days with ‘courage, faith, and grace’.
Van Der Beek was committed to ‘raising awareness’ for colorectal cancer before his death. He shared with People in 2024 that sharing his journey was ‘helpful and cathartic’ for him.
In a conversation published shortly after revealing his diagnosis, Van Der Beek confessed he thought cancer was linked to age and unfit lifestyles. However, his diagnosis came despite his healthy diet and excellent cardiovascular condition.
Following his diagnosis, Van Der Beek remembered noticing changes in his bowel movements in the summer of 2023, yet cancer didn’t cross his mind.
He said: “I thought maybe I needed to stop coffee. Or maybe not put cream in the coffee. But when I cut that out and it didn’t improve, I thought, ‘All right, I better get this checked out’.”
After undergoing a colonoscopy, Van Der Beek still ‘felt really good’. It wasn’t until the doctor informed him about the cancer that the seriousness of the situation became real for Van Der Beek, leaving him ‘in shock’.
The actor explored multiple treatments, noting: “If you’ve heard about it, I’ve probably touched on it.”
Van Der Beek’s family did their utmost to support him as a husband and father. Now, after his passing, a GoFundMe campaign states they are under ‘significant financial strain’ due to his medical bills.
The fundraiser is intended to assist Van Der Beek’s family in ‘navigating the road ahead’, helping them ‘stay in their home and ensure the children continue their education, maintaining stability during this difficult period’.
You can contribute to the fundraiser here.
If you’ve been impacted by these issues and wish to talk confidentially, contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or use their live chat feature, available 24/7 year-round.