James Van Der Beek Sends Heartfelt Video to 'Dawson's Creek' Reunion After Cancer Battle
Sep, 24 2025
On September 22, 2025, the iconic cast of Dawson's Creek gathered at the Richard Rodgers Theatre for a one‑of‑a‑kind charity reunion. The event, organized by former co‑star Michelle Williams, combined a live reading of the 1998 pilot with a fundraising drive for F Cancer, an organization that supports people battling cancer and their families.
The Reunion Event: Highlights and Purpose
Fans packed the historic New York venue to watch Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, Busy Philipps, Kerr Smith and Meredith Monroe reprise their beloved characters. The centerpiece was a staged reading of the series’ opening episode, a nostalgic moment that let the audience relive the early days of Dawson Leery’s small‑town dreams.
When the original lead, James Van Der Beek, had to withdraw a day before due to two stomach viruses, the organizers acted fast. Grammy‑winning songwriter and Tony Award winner Lin‑Manuel Miranda stepped in to read the role of Dawson. Van Der Beek introduced Miranda via a pre‑recorded segment, joking that the new Dawson was “a young up‑and‑comer” and urging the crowd to welcome him warmly.
- Michelle Williams – Jen Lindley
- Katie Holmes – Joey Potter
- Joshua Jackson – Pacey Witter
- Busy Philipps – Audrey Liddell
- Kerr Smith – Jack McPhee
- Meredith Monroe – Andie McPhee
Beyond the reading, the evening featured a silent auction of show memorabilia and a live musical performance of the series’ signature song, “I Don’t Want to Wait.” The funds raised will go directly to F Cancer’s patient‑care programs, counseling services, and research grants.
Van Der Beek’s Message and Family Surprise
Although absent from the theater, Van Der Beek recorded an emotional video that played at the climax of the night. He spoke candidly about his recent diagnosis of stage 3 colorectal cancer, a battle he revealed in August 2023, and expressed how eager he had been to reunite with his castmates. “I’ve been looking forward to this night for months and months ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she was putting it together,” he said, his voice wavering with gratitude.
The actor thanked every person in the theater – from the crew working behind the scenes to the generous donors who made the event possible. He highlighted the dedication of the fanbase, calling them “the best fans in the world,” and offered a heartfelt promise to return to the stage when his health allowed.
In a moving finale, Van Der Beek’s wife Kimberly and their six children appeared onstage, joining the original cast for a sing‑along of “I Don’t Want to Wait.” The children, each wearing Dawson‑themed shirts, swayed and clapped, turning the moment into a family‑style tribute that left the audience visibly teary.
Since announcing his withdrawal on social media, Van Der Beek has shared updates on his recovery, describing himself as being in a “healing portal” and expressing optimism about his treatment progress. His openness has resonated with both cancer patients and the show’s loyal followers, many of whom have taken to online forums to share messages of support.
The reunion not only celebrated a beloved teen drama that defined a generation but also underscored how entertainment can rally around a charitable cause. By blending nostalgia, star power, and a genuine fight against cancer, the night proved that the spirit of Dawson’s Creek lives on—both on stage and in the hearts of those it continues to inspire.