Busy Phillips recently got emotional discussing James van der Beek’s absence from the Dawson’s Creek reunion. In an Instagram post, the 46-year-old shared that the absence of her former co-stars was “heartbreaking for a million different reasons.”
She expressed gratitude for being with Kimberly and mentioned that Van der Beek’s wife and their six kids were also present during the reunion. The kids even sang the show’s theme song, which brought tears to the eyes of cast members and fans alike.
“It was really beautiful,” Phillips added. “James has shared a lot of videos and messages. We love him so much.” The beloved teen drama’s cast, including Phillips (Audrey Liddell), Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson (Pacey Witter), and Michelle Williams (Jen Lindley), gathered at the Richard Rogers Theatre in New York City to read a pilot episode from 1998.
Other attendees included Meredith Monroe, Mary Beth Peil, John Wesley Shipp, and Kerr Smith. Dawson’s Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003, explored the friendships and relationships of two childhood friends, Dawson Reilly (Van der Beek) and Joey Potter (Holmes), among others in their fictional Massachusetts town.
During the reunion, Phillips and Jackson reenacted a popular scene that featured a surprising kiss. Phillips, who originally played Joey’s college roommate, once took on the role of Pacey’s high school English teacher, creating a stir in the story.
Unfortunately, 48-year-old Van der Beek could not attend due to a stomach illness related to his ongoing battle with colorectal cancer. He posted a heartfelt message on social media acknowledging how much he looked forward to the reunion and expressing his disappointment in not being there.
“I’ve been anticipating this night ever since Michelle Williams mentioned organizing it,” Van der Beek shared. “I can’t believe I’m not there. It’s so tough not to see everyone.” He went on to thank the cast and crew for their support.
Williams led the reunion, arranging for Lynn Manuel Miranda to fill in as Dawson Reilly, a note of admiration that Van der Beek expressed on social media. He emphasized his appreciation for the effort put into the event, which aimed to benefit F Cancer as he continues his fight against stage 3 colorectal cancer.
Van der Beek first shared his diagnosis back in November 2024, saying he was dealing with it personally but felt hopeful. In July, he remarked that living with cancer was like a “full-time job,” a reality he expected would persist.
