James Van Der Beek Withdraws from Dawson’s Creek Reunion Amid Health Struggles

James Van Der Beek, the actor who became a household name as Dawson Leery in the 1990s teen drama Dawson’s Creek, has withdrawn from the highly anticipated reunion of the show due to illness, citing his ongoing health struggles.

The reunion, billed as a live reading of the pilot episode and set for Monday, September 22, in New York, was organized as a benefit event in support of the cancer advocacy group F Cancer.

Actress Michelle Williams, Van Der Beek’s former co-star, spearheaded the initiative.

Van Der Beek, however, announced that he would be unable to take part after contracting two stomach viruses that, in his words, “knocked (him) out of commission.”

“I’ve been looking forward to this ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she was putting it together,” the actor said.

“I’m gutted that I can’t be there, but thankfully there’s a ridiculously overqualified replacement stepping in.”

That replacement is none other than Broadway superstar and Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, who will read the role of Dawson Leery in Van Der Beek’s absence.

The casting switch has generated considerable buzz, giving the reunion a fresh twist while highlighting the event’s mission of raising awareness for cancer support and screening.

Van Der Beek’s inability to attend comes against the backdrop of his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, a diagnosis he revealed publicly in November 2024.

The actor, 48, first noticed warning signs when he experienced unusual changes in bowel movements, which he initially dismissed as a side effect of coffee or dietary habits.

Despite his physically active lifestyle and health-focused routines, ranging from cold plunges to strict workout regimens, Van Der Beek was diagnosed with cancer after undergoing a colonoscopy.

Since then, he has been candid about the realities of living with the disease, describing it as a “full-time job.”

He has embraced lifestyle changes, including yoga, a ketogenic diet, and prioritizing rest.

His story has resonated widely, particularly as rates of colorectal cancer rise among younger adults.

Van Der Beek has emphasized the importance of early screening, pointing out that he delayed testing partly due to moving and logistics, unaware that guidelines had shifted to recommend screenings beginning at age 45.

While fans expressed disappointment at his absence from the reunion, many took to social media to praise the actor’s honesty and resilience in sharing his health journey.

Organizers confirmed that the event would proceed as planned, with Van Der Beek supporting from afar.

The Dawson’s Creek reunion not only celebrates the legacy of a beloved TV drama but also stands as a platform for advocacy and awareness. For Van Der Beek, it is another reminder of the fragility of health and the importance of vigilance, even in lives that appear outwardly full of energy and strength.