Actor James Van Der Beek, remembered worldwide for his role as Dawson Leery in the iconic teen series Dawson’s Creek (1998-2003), surprised fans by participating virtually in a reading of the pilot episode of the series.
The event took place on Monday at the Richard Rodgers Theater in New York and aimed to raise funds for the non-profit organization F Cancer, dedicated to the prevention, early detection and support of cancer patients.
Although Van Der Beek was scheduled to attend in person, the actor explained that he was unable to appear due to a stomach virus that prevented him from traveling and going on stage.
His absence generated expectation, but was compensated with an emotional video appearance, in which he addressed the audience directly.
The actor, who publicly revealed in November 2024 that he faces stage 3 colorectal cancer, said he had been waiting for months for the opportunity to be reunited with his fellow cast members and the public.
“I’ve been looking forward to tonight for months and months since my angel Michelle Williams said she was hosting it. I can’t believe I won’t be there. I can’t believe I won’t get to see my castmates, my beautiful cast in person,” he expressed visibly moved.
James Van Der Beek: A reunion of the original cast
The charity reading brought together several of the main figures of the series that marked an entire generation in the late 90s and early 2000s. Among those present were Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson, who shared the stage to relive the first episode of the production created by Kevin Williamson.
The gesture represented not only a tribute to the series, but also a symbol of unity towards Van Der Beek in his ongoing battle with cancer.
During his virtual intervention, the actor dedicated a few words full of gratitude: “I just wanted to get up on that stage and thank every single person in the theater for being here tonight. From the cast to the crew, to everyone who has been so generous, and especially to each and every one of you. You are the best fans in the world.”
His statements were received with a standing ovation from the audience, who recognized not only his trajectory, but also the courage with which he is facing his illness.
One of the most talked about moments of the evening was the participation of playwright and actor Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of Hamilton and In the Heights. Miranda took on the role of Van Der Beek’s “understudy,” playing Dawson Leery during the reading. His participation was enthusiastically received and added a special touch to the evening.
The reunion was not only a nostalgic reunion for Dawson’s Creek fans, but also served a greater purpose: to raise funds for F Cancer, an organization that supports research and raises awareness about cancer prevention.
The fact that Van Der Beek participated, even in adverse health conditions, underscored the personal importance of the event to him and reinforced the message of hope and resilience he seeks to convey to his followers.
Here is James Van Der Beek’s emotional video about his health.
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