James Van Der Beek, best known for his roles in *Dawson’s Creek* and *Varsity Blues*, 

opened up emotionally during his recent appearance on *Good Morning America* (GMA), sharing his deeply personal health journey. 

The actor, 47, had previously revealed that he had been battling stage 3 colorectal cancer in private, receiving support from his family. 

His GMA interview with Robin Roberts was his first public appearance since the announcement, offering viewers a glimpse into the emotional toll of his diagnosis.

At the start of their conversation, Roberts gently inquired about Van Der Beek’s physical and emotional well-being. 

While the actor shared that he was “feeling really good physically,” he admitted that emotionally, the journey has been “a lot” and “really a ride.” 

Reflecting on the moment when he first received his cancer diagnosis, Van Der Beek said it felt like a “nightmare” because he had always thought he was doing everything right to stay healthy. Despite this, he came to terms with the fact that his life would take a “different trajectory” moving forward. “It was shocking,” he explained, adding that while most of the time he felt optimistic, there were moments when he was overwhelmed by fear and anxiety.

Van Der Beek’s emotional state became particularly evident when Robin Roberts brought up the outpouring of support he had received from his wife, Kimberly. The actor fought back tears as he described his wife’s incredible role in his battle. “This is where I’m gonna lose it,” he said, his voice cracking as he reflected on Kimberly’s unwavering support. “She’s been amazing. She’s really taught me what unconditional love is,” he continued, describing how his wife had been a rock for him during the most challenging time of his life.

In his emotional moment, Van Der Beek also explained that his diagnosis forced him to learn how to ask for help and receive it. For someone who had previously tried to do everything for everyone else, he noted that his current situation had turned the tables, compelling him to depend on others—especially his wife. It’s clear that Kimberly’s strength has been pivotal in helping him navigate the ups and downs of his health journey.

The actor’s decision to go public with his diagnosis was influenced in part by a call from a tabloid that intended to run a story about his health battle. Although the news was about to become public anyway, Van Der Beek had already considered how to share his story. He chose to participate in *The Real Full Monty* on Fox, a special aimed at raising awareness for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer. The two-hour special, which aired in December, was an adaptation of the film *The Full Monty*, and featured Van Der Beek alongside celebrities like Anthony Anderson, Taye Diggs, and Bruno Tonioli.

Despite the challenges he’s faced, Van Der Beek remains focused on his family. He and his wife, Kimberly, have six children together: four daughters, Olivia (14), Annabel (10), Emilia (8), and Gwendolyn (6), and two sons, Joshua (12) and Jeremiah (2). Van Der Beek has been vocal about the emotional impact his cancer journey has had on his children. He explained that each of his children expresses their emotions differently. While some of them are more “outward” in showing their fears, others “manifest” their feelings in different ways. Van Der Beek views this experience as an opportunity for deeper connection with his kids, a way to explore the difficult and “really scary” emotions they may be experiencing, and to strengthen their bond during this challenging time.

During Thanksgiving, Van Der Beek took to Instagram to express his gratitude for his family’s support, as well as the kindness he’s received from fans. He shared a photo of his family, writing in the caption, “I’m grateful to each and every one of you who has reached out and sent good vibes and prayers. It all lands and makes a difference.” He also paid tribute to his wife, calling her a “superhuman” and acknowledging the incredible love she has shown him throughout his battle. “I’m beyond thankful for the little blond arm of hearts who keep me present, active, and inspired just by being you,” he wrote, showing his deep appreciation for the love and support of his family.

Van Der Beek’s courage in speaking publicly about his cancer diagnosis, as well as the emotional journey he’s enduring, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of family, support, and resilience in the face of life’s toughest challenges. Through his openness, he is not only raising awareness for colorectal cancer but also offering hope and connection to others who might be navigating similar struggles.

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