James Van Der Beek Warns Fans to Be Aware of This Colorectal Cancer Symptom
James Van Der Beek encouraged fans to take one particular colorectal cancer symptom seriously before his passing on February 11, at the age of 48.
In a recently shared interview from November 2024, Van Der Beek told People about a warning sign for his later-stage III colorectal cancer that he initially overlooked.
“It was simply a change in bowel habits,” he recounted while discussing his diagnosis publicly for the first time. “I thought, maybe I should tweak my diet. Perhaps I need to cut back on coffee or stop using cream in it.” (Colorectal cancer originates in the colon, the longest section of the large intestine, which is linked to bowel patterns.)
The Dawson’s Creek star remarked, “Eventually, I eliminated those elements from my diet, but my condition didn’t improve, so I decided it was time to consult a doctor.”
After undergoing a routine colonoscopy in August 2023, he recalled feeling “really, really good” as he came out of the anesthesia, relieved that he had addressed his concerns.
That relief, however, was short-lived when he learned of his diagnosis. “As I was regaining consciousness, the gastroenterologist calmly informed me — with his most pleasant demeanor — that it was cancer,” Van Der Beek remembered.
The star of Varsity Blues pointed out that he was “very healthy” and in “excellent cardiovascular shape” when he discovered he had cancer. Once he grasped the reality of his situation, he adjusted his already nutritious diet—advice he felt others should consider as a precaution.
“I believe the country is becoming more aware of our food and the extent of processing it has undergone, straying far from nature’s original design,” he explained. “I would encourage everyone to adopt similar practices because this journey is not easy.”
At that time, Van Der Beek cautioned, “There are many misconceptions we’ve grown up with regarding what constitutes a healthy diet. I think it would benefit us all to reconsider those beliefs.”
He shared that he was steering clear of processed foods, gluten, and dairy, consuming only organic vegetables from his garden, while exercising regularly and focusing on his mental health.
In December 2025, Van Der Beek emphasized the importance of getting screened for colon cancer at 45, noting he didn’t have his first check-up until 46. (The recommended age for colonoscopies was lowered from 50 to 45 in 2018.)
“If there’s one takeaway from this interview, it’s to get tested and consult with your doctor,” Van Der Beek advised during his last appearance on the Today show.
According to Dr. Peter Stanich, a gastroenterologist from The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, there has been a rise in colorectal cancer cases among younger, otherwise healthy individuals.
“We know colorectal cancer rates are increasing among young people, though the exact reasons remain unclear,” Stanich, who was not involved in Van Der Beek’s treatment, shared with Women’s World on February 12.
The physician explained, “This trend could be partly attributed to rising obesity rates and shifts in dietary habits, but many are still researching the underlying causes,” referring to the increase in young patients as a “concerning trend.”
Stanich also noted that, similar to Van Der Beek’s case, any changes in bowel movements or abdominal discomfort should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
“Most colorectal cancers often go unnoticed, which makes it essential to undergo the recommended screening at the appropriate age [45],” he added.
Van Der Beek battled his cancer for over two years before passing away on Wednesday.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He faced his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” his family announced via an Instagram statement. “There’s much to share about his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those conversations will happen. For now, we seek privacy to mourn our dear husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Support has since poured in for James’ wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children, with a GoFundMe page launched to assist with remaining medical expenses and other financial needs following his passing.
James’ fans and co-stars have also paid tribute to him. His former Dancing With the Stars partner Emma Slater expressed her devastation on social media, stating, “I’m heartbroken. He is and will always be family to me. Love you endlessly, James. You can take pride in the man you were. I’m grateful I had the chance to say goodbye.”
His Dawson’s Creek co-star Katie Holmes shared a heartfelt handwritten letter to James on Instagram.
“James, thank you. Sharing space with your imagination has been sacred — breathing the same air in our realm of make-believe, knowing our hearts are safe in expression,” Holmes, 47, wrote in part. “These are the moments I cherish, filled with laughter and deep discussions about life, James Taylor songs, and adventures of our unique youth …”
She continued, describing James’ life as one of “Bravery. Compassion. Selflessness. Strength. An appreciation for living life with integrity — creating a loving marriage and six beautiful children — the journey of a true hero.”
