James van der Beek Drops Out of Dawson’s Creek Reunion

James van der Beek expressed his “furious” disappointment over having to bow out of the highly anticipated Dawson’s Creek reunion scheduled for Monday.

The actor, who revealed his battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer in November 2024, informed his Instagram followers over the weekend that he hadn’t been able to pay the fees associated with the event.

On Sunday, the 48-year-old, known for his role in Varsity Blues, mentioned that “two stomach viruses have conspired to ground me at their worst moments.”

He had worked alongside F Cancer to support the charity event, explaining that he had been looking forward to it immensely since Michelle Williams proposed the idea back in January.

Van der Beek and Williams, who is 45, were set to reunite with fellow cast members like Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and others at the Richard Rogers Theatre in New York City.

He stated, “Despite all the effort… I can’t be there. I can’t stand on that stage and fully appreciate all the souls gathered for me when I needed it most.”

“But I do have an understudy,” he added. “A ridiculously qualified replacement who I can only dream was available. My kids would probably consider him an upgrade—and he knows how to handle the theatre.”

Lin Manuel Miranda will step in for van der Beek, with the actor expressing his disbelief on Instagram. He wrote, “Thanks @lin_manuel. You were a hero for my kids before… now you’re like a demigod.”

Van der Beek reflected that while he might be absent, he’ll still share in the joy from afar in his bed in Austin.

The reunion is meant to raise funds for the F Cancer organization. Williams initiated the planning just a few months back, and van der Beek was excited to be part of it.

Kimberly van der Beek, James’s wife, will attend the event with their six children: Olivia, 14; Joshua, 13; Annabelle, 11; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 3. She mentioned on Instagram how important this event was for him.

The couple, who tied the knot in August 2010, have shared their journey together, with Kimberly posting inspiring messages celebrating their life and love, emphasizing hope for many more joyous moments ahead.

James participated in “The Masked Singer” earlier this year, receiving support from his family. He expressed gratitude, stating he wouldn’t have made it through the year without them, highlighting how they helped him find joy during difficult times.

Van der Beek’s cancer diagnosis came in August 2023. By the time he shared his struggles publicly, he felt “cautiously optimistic,” noting that he was in a healing phase and had good energy.

He added, “When I feel it’s responsible, I’ll reach out and let you know how things are going.”