James Van Der Beek Thanks His Dad for Emotional Support Through Cancer Treatment

The Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek publicly expressed his gratitude to his father, James William Van Der Beek, in an emotional Instagram post. This heartfelt message was shared on January 25, coinciding with his father's birthday. In his message, he acknowledged, "The way you have shown up when I’ve been down and out this year — without us having to ask, without expecting thanks — has been life-saving and life-affirming."

He also mentioned his father’s ongoing support as he undergoes treatment. "Moving onto the ranch for when I’m away for treatment. Making lunches, starting fires for @vanderkimberly, driving the kids, even taking care of the dogs and chickens — neither of which you ever wanted and would have rather not had," he noted humorously.

Van Der Beek extended his gratitude for his father's emotional presence during his battle with cancer, saying: "I know it’s outside your comfort zone, but since Mom died, you have stepped up for me in countless ways I never knew I needed." He expressed pride in witnessing his father's growth and emphasized how it boosts his own self-confidence.

He concluded this heartfelt message noting, "Thank you for being the best. Ever. Period. I promise we won’t ever ask you to change Jeremiah’s diapers."

In November 2024, he revealed he had stage 3 colorectal cancer. During this time, Van Der Beek said, "I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and taking steps to resolve it, supported by my incredible family. There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good."

James has been married to Kimberly Van Der Beek since 2010, and the couple shares six children. Their daughter Annabel also has a birthday on her grandfather's special day. In another post on Instagram, he sweetly addressed his daughter on her birthday.

"There are sweet souls… and then there’s you. The softest, most empathetic heart I know. This past year has been tough, especially for someone so sensitive," he wrote. He expressed his appreciation for her ability to bring joy and peace, saying, "May you always trust that your dad sees you and loves everything about you. And always will."

Speaking to Robin Roberts on Good Morning America in December 2024, Van Der Beek stated that he feels physically well but described the emotional toll of cancer treatment as challenging. He noted, "I’m going to look back on [this in] 30 years and say, ‘Thank God this happened.’ That's how it was about 90% of the time, while 10% involved moments where I felt like a sobbing, terrified mess."

Earlier, SSP wrote that Paris Hilton enjoyed joyful car ride with foster dog Zuzu after L.A. Fires.