James Van Der Beek reveals cancer diagnosis

Quality mark And “Dancing with the Stars” alum James Van Der Beek shared big news with his fans. Despite receiving a potentially frightening medical diagnosis, the actor said he has an optimistic view of the situation.

The actor who starred in Hallmark’s ‘Mrs. Miracle by Debbie Macomber’, noted that he has been privately dealing with his cancer diagnosis for some time.

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James Van Der Beek has colorectal cancer

On November 3, Van Der Beek announced his cancer diagnosis via People.

He said: ‘I have colorectal cancer. I have dealt with this diagnosis privately and have taken steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.

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

According to the Mayo ClinicColon cancer is most commonly found in older adults. However, the clinic noted: “It can happen at any age.”

Doctors recommend a variety of treatments depending on the patient’s stage and condition. Surgery, medication, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy are common treatment recommendations.

The Cleveland Clinic indicates this that when colorectal cancer is detected early, more than 90% of people survive five years after their initial diagnosis. The overall survival rate when combining all stages is 65%.

Van Der Beek did not share any further details about his diagnosis or treatment plan with People.

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Van Der Beek received a lot of support from fans

As People previously sharedVan Der Beek and his wife Kimberly have six children. The media noted that the couple met while in Israel in July 2009. In April 2010, it was announced that they were expecting their first child.

The couple married in Israel in August 2010, in a “small, spiritual ceremony.” Their daughter Olivia was born weeks after the wedding and their son Joshua arrived two years later.

They have since added Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah to their family.

They have also experienced several pregnancy losses over the years. One happened while Van Der Beek was competing on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in November 2019.

The couple’s pregnancy loss came about a month after they announced they were expecting again. As Entertainment Tonight sharedVan Der Beek said at the time: “My wife, Kimberly, and I have experienced every expectant parent’s worst nightmare. We lost the baby.”

“The little soul we expected to welcome into our family took a shortcut to what lies beyond,” the actor added.

He continued, “You never know why these things happen. That’s what I told my kids. All you know is that it brings you closer together.”

The couple’s youngest child, Jeremiah, was born in October 2021. Before the baby’s birth, Van Der Beek admitted that they had been “keeping this one quiet.” He explained: ‘Honestly, I was terrified when I found out.’

Fans of Van Der Beek were quick to share messages of support for the actor after learning of his cancer diagnosis.

One Instagram user commented on People’s post“Dang. He has six young children who need their father. Best wishes for a complete recovery!!!”

“I am so happy that his family can support and help him through this,” wrote another fan.

Someone else added“I hope he is doing well, fully recovered. Cancer is tough, but we can be even stronger.”

A separate supporter wrote“A like for this post because of the optimization and the good feeling. Kudos to cancer. He’s sending good vibes his way!”

Stacy Carey has been a freelance writer focusing on reality television and celebrity news for over a decade. She is a heavy contributor to The Bachelor, Hallmark and Dancing With the Stars. More about Stacy Carey