James Van Der Beek Drops Out of Dawson’s Creek Reunion Amid Cancer Battle; Lin-Manuel Miranda Steps In

James Van Der Beek has withdrawn from Monday’s Dawson’s Creek reunion in New York, citing his ongoing cancer battle. The actor, who publicly disclosed his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024, told followers on Instagram that he is “out of commission” and was grounded by two stomach viruses at what he called the worst possible moment for the fundraiser. The charity event, staged at the Richard Rodgers Theatre and tied to F Cancer, will go on with a replacement on deck to take his place on stage.

Van Der Beek’s absence comes as Lin-Manuel Miranda steps in to fill the role he was slated to perform. In a Sunday post, the actor wrote that he was still planning to support the event even as he could not attend. He described finding an understudy who could carry the moment and said, “Despite every effort… I won’t get to be there.” He added that the stand-in is “a ridiculously overqualified replacement who would have been #1 on my wishlist (had I ever dreamed he’d be available).” The production team later confirmed Miranda would take Van Der Beek’s place for the New York reunion, which was being organized by Michelle Williams, with other former Dawson’s Creek stars expected to participate.

Images from the event and behind-the-scenes posts have already begun circulating in fan and entertainment circles, underscoring the reunion’s long-awaited nature. In a sign of the show’s reach beyond the stage, Williams has spearheaded the effort since January, framing it as a celebration of the series and a fundraiser for F Cancer. The gathering was set to bring together Williams, Busy Philipps, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson and other former co-stars for a night of nostalgia and fundraising at the theater that has hosted the production.

Van Der Beek, now 47, has spoken candidly about his cancer journey over the past year. He first revealed his cancer diagnosis in August 2023, and in November 2024 followed with news that his cancer had progressed to stage 3 colorectal cancer. He has described periods of cautious optimism and acknowledged the emotional and physical toll of treatment. In his Instagram posts over the weekend, he indicated that his health struggle would prevent him from appearing on stage, while expressing gratitude for the support he has received and for the family members who have stood by him during treatment.

For this reunion, the cast and organizers have leaned on a mix of familiar faces and new energy. The event’s aim is to raise funds for F Cancer, a nonprofit supported by Williams and the broader Dawson’s Creek community. Williams has used the platform to celebrate the idea of bringing the old cast back together to honor fans and to support a cause close to her heart. The idea for the event emerged earlier this year, and the lineup has been shaped around ensuring a meaningful night for both audience and participants, even as unforeseen illness forced changes to the plan.

Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, will attend the fundraiser with their six children—Olivia, 14; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 11; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 3—accompanying him at various points in the public arc of his cancer journey. Kimberly posted heartfelt messages earlier in the year, voicing her wish for “many many many many more birthdays” together and describing her husband as a “treasure.” The couple have been married since 2010 and have repeatedly shared updates about their family’s experiences through the challenges they have faced.

Miranda’s involvement represents a notable pivot for the event, with the actor and Hamilton creator stepping into the spotlight for a cause that has resonated with fans across generations. In social-media exchanges surrounding his casting, fans and press alike noted the sense of defiance and resilience that has characterized Van Der Beek’s public updates about his health. The event will proceed with Miranda, while Van Der Beek continues treatment and supports from Austin, where he has said he will be “beaming and receiving from afar.”

Beyond the reunion, Van Der Beek has referenced the broader arc of his year, including his appearance on the improvisational competition show The Masked Singer earlier this year, where he spoke about leaning on family as he navigates treatment. He has repeatedly credited his wife and children for helping him navigate some of the toughest days, emphasizing the role of his home life as a source of strength amid medical challenges.

The Dawson’s Creek reunion remains a milestone for fans who grew up with the drama and its cast. While the lineup has shifted due to Van Der Beek’s health, the organizers have emphasized that the evening will continue to honor the show’s legacy and raise funds for an important cause. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s presence adds a new dynamic to the night, bringing a performer with a long history of blending pop culture, storytelling and charitable work.

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The updated plans reflect a broader truth about the entertainment world: public figures often balance high-profile obligations with personal health journeys, and fans have shown consistent support for artists as they navigate serious medical challenges. As Van Der Beek continues treatment, his message to fans has remained one of gratitude and resilience, underscoring the communal nature of the Dawson’s Creek legacy and the ongoing impact of his work on screen and beyond.

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