Mr. Van Der Beek, who played Dawson Leery in the ’90s drama, told People Magazine that he was being treated for colorectal cancer.

"I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it," James Van Der Beek said.

American actor James Van Der Beek says he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The 47-year-old, known for starring in the TV series Dawson's Creek and the film Varsity Blues, told People magazine about his diagnosis and treatment.