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Actor James Van Der Beek issued a heartfelt apology on November 3, 2024, to family members and close friends who learned about his colorectal cancer diagnosis through media reports rather than from him directly. The 47-year-old star was forced to expedite his announcement after learning of an imminent tabloid leak.
"Apologies to all the people in my life who I'd planned on telling myself," Van Der Beek expressed on Instagram. "Nothing about this process has occurred on my preferred timeline." The actor had had the intention to communicate his diagnosis via a planned People magazine feature, aiming to control the narrative and raise awareness thoughtfully.
The rushed revelation disrupted Van Der Beek's carefully considered approach to informing loved ones. "There's no playbook for how to announce these things," he noted, acknowledging the complex nature of sharing such personal health information while in the public eye.
Prior to the public announcement, Van Der Beek had been privately managing his treatment with support from his immediate family, including wife Kimberly and their six children. The actor maintains an optimistic outlook, stating, "I'm in a good place and feeling strong."
Despite the circumstances surrounding the revelation, Van Der Beek expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, noting, "Please know that my family and I deeply appreciate all the love and support." He continues to work on various projects, including the upcoming cancer awareness special "The Real Full Monty," scheduled to air December 9.
