James Van Der Beek, renowned for his role as Dawson Leery in the classic teen series “Dawson’s Creek,” made a surprise virtual appearance at a special reading of the show’s pilot episode held at New York City’s Richard Rodgers Theatre. The event, aimed at supporting the nonprofit F Cancer, saw several of Van Der Beek’s former co-stars, including Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, and Joshua Jackson, gather in a heartfelt reunion.
Despite his absence due to illness, Van Der Beek conveyed a meaningful message to those present, celebrating the event and acknowledging the significance of reconnecting with his castmates. He expressed his deep appreciation for the support and generosity of both the event’s attendees and his fans, calling them “the best fans in the world.”
Van Der Beek’s courageous battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer has been public knowledge since his announcement in November 2024. His condition prevented him from attending the event in person, but his dedication and gratitude were palpable through his virtual message, highlighting his desire to thank everyone involved for their role in the fundraiser. Lin-Manuel Miranda graciously stepped in as an “understudy” for Van Der Beek, adding to the evening’s spirit of community and support.
This gathering and the involvement of Van Der Beek underline the powerful bonds forged through shared experiences on the show, now being channeled into support for an important cause. The event not only celebrated the show’s legacy but also emphasized the hopeful strength and unity within the entertainment community when rallying behind a worthy cause.