Dawson's Creek Cast Reunites in New York, James Van Der Beek Absent Amid Cancer Battle

James Van Der Beek, star of Dawson's Creek, announced he will miss the highly anticipated reunion event in New York City due to battling two stomach viruses amid his ongoing treatment for stage 3 colorectal cancer. Despite his absence, his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six children will attend the charity event at the Richard Rodgers Theatre to represent their family, emphasizing the importance of their presence. Lin-Manuel Miranda, the Tony-winning creator of Hamilton, will serve as Van Der Beek’s "understudy" by performing a live reading of the show's pilot episode, a role his children regard as an upgrade. The reunion, organized in part by Michelle Williams, aims to raise funds for F Cancer and cancer research, with original cast members also participating. Van Der Beek expressed his disappointment but encouraged fans to enjoy the event, promising to be watching and sending support from afar. Kimberly reassured fans that the event will remain special despite James's absence, highlighting the family's commitment to the cause and the reunion.