James Van Der Beek Is ‘Clinging to His Positivity’ Amid Cancer Battle, Actor ‘Wants to Keep Working’

Brave James Van Der Beek is looking increasingly frail as he battles advanced colorectal cancer — but sources say his determination is inspiring his fellow Dawson’s Creek costars, even though they heartbreakingly had to hold the show’s recent reunion without him.

Katie Holmes cited the cast’s “everlasting bond” during the emotionally charged gathering at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City, and tears flowed when the actor’s wife, Kimberly, and their six children made a surprise appearance onstage.

They joined the original cast — including Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson, Mary Beth Peil, John Wesley Shipp, Mary-Margaret Humes, Nina Repeta, Kerr Smith, Meredith Monroe and Busy Philipps — plus Lin-Manuel Miranda as a last-minute replacement for James.

“He’s staying positive and upbeat and doesn’t want anyone to worry about it, he’s got this,” says an insider.

“He’s still doing everything he can work-wise and wants to keep working. He’s being a rock-solid friend to everyone who knows him, a perfect colleague and husband and an amazing dad to his kids. Looking at him, though, you know he’s poorly and he’s upset he couldn’t make the reunion in person.”

Late last year, James, 48, received the shocking diagnosis of stage 3 colorectal cancer. Although he had intended to join his costars at their first reunion in 22 years — a cancer fundraiser event involving a live read-through of the iconic teen show’s pilot episode — he pulled out days before after two stomach viruses laid him low.

“I have been looking forward to this night for months and months,” he shared in a surprise video during the reunion. “I can’t believe I’m not there. I can’t believe I don’t get to see my castmates, my beautiful cast in person.”

Sources noted it was difficult for everyone to see James in such a weakened state.

“They’re proud of him for being a fighter and an optimist, but still he’s very ill and they’re worried about him regardless of what he says,” adds a source. “But James is clinging to his positivity and refuses to let go while hoping for that miracle!”