James Van Der Beek Makes Surprise Appearance at ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Reunion

The "Rules of Attraction" star had to withdraw from the reunion after he contracted a stomach virus just one day before the reunion. The illness comes amid his ongoing battle with colon cancer.

James Van Der Beek surprised longtime fans with a virtual appearance at the "Dawson's Creek" reunion on Monday, September 22. The 48-year-old actor had announced the previous day that he had to withdraw from the event after contracting two stomach viruses.

The reunion, which was held at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City, was a live reading of the "Dawson's Creek" 1998 pilot episode. It also served as a benefit for the volunteer-based program F Cancer.

While Van Der Beek couldn't appear in person, he spoke to the audience in a pre-taped video that was projected onstage. In the clip, he expressed his gratitude to fans for purchasing tickets to the show and to Lin-Manuel Miranda for stepping in to take his place.

"I have been looking forward to this night for months and months ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she was putting it together," Van Der Beek began. "I can't believe I'm not there. I can't believe I don't get to see my cast mates, my beautiful cast in person."

"And just — I want to stand on that stage and thank every single person in the theater for being here tonight," he continued. "Thank you for coming. It's just absolutely humbling just how much you did for this night, and I just want to say thank you. Thank you to every single person here."

Van Der Beek's stomach virus illness comes amid his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He revealed in November 2024 that he had been undergoing treatment after receiving his diagnosis in the summer of 2023, and has since been open about his journey.