DAWSON’S Creek star James Van Der Beek has revealed he has cancer.

The 47-year-old actor, who rose to fame in the 90s teen drama, said he’d been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and is being supported by his family.

James Van Der Beek has revealed he has been diagnosed with a form of cancerCredit: James Van Der Beek/Instagram

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The actor played the lead role in the hit 90s teen dramaCredit: Alamy
In a statement to People Magazine, he said: “I have colorectal cancer.

“I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.

“There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”

Colorectal cancer develops in the tissues of the colon or rectum, which are both part of the large intestine and the digestive system.

James has continued to work despite his diagnosis, appearing in a recent episode of Walker and a new film for Tubi called Sidelined: The QB and Me, which will be released on November 29.

He is also prioritising time with his large family, having had six children with wife Kimberly.

James rose to fame as the titular Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, which ran for six seasons from 1998 until 2003.

The teen drama made household names of its stars which also included Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson and Michelle Williams.

Since the show ended he has continued to appear in popular TV shows including Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, CSI: Cyber and Pose.

He also took part in Dancing with the Stars in 2019 where he was partnered with Emma Slater and reached the semi-finals.

In his personal life, James was previously married to first wife Heather McComb from 2003 until 2009.

He then married second wife Kimberly in 2010 and have had four daughters and two sons.

After the birth of sixth child, James revealed they had previously suffered a number of miscarriages before their son’s safe arrival.

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James, 47, said he was feeling good despite the diagnosisCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk