Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek diagnosed with cancer
Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek has been diagnosed with colon cancer, he told People.
"I have colon cancer. I am battling the disease and taking all the measures I can to cope with it with the support of my incredible family," the 47-year-old actor said.
He notes that his current state of health gives him hope for a good outcome. "I have reasons for optimism, and I feel good," he added.
The actor said he had planned to talk about it later, giving an interview to a magazine to raise awareness of the disease, but he had to adjust his plans. James also apologized to friends who learned of his diagnosis from the media. 
In addition to "Dawson's Creek", where the actor played alongside Katie Holmes, he also starred in such projects as "How I Met Your Mother", "Modern Family" and many others.
