James Van Der Beek shares video message at Dawson’s Creek reunion despite not attending in person.

In a notable event celebrating nostalgia and camaraderie, James Van Der Beek, renowned for his role in the iconic television series “Dawson’s Creek,” made a surprise video appearance during a sold-out Broadway reunion of the cast on September 22, 2025. Although unable to attend in person due to health concerns, Van Der Beek’s message resonated with fans and castmates alike at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City.

At 48 years old, Van Der Beek has been transparent about his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, a diagnosis he shared with the public last November. On the eve of the reunion, he announced his inability to attend due to ongoing health problems, expressing his disappointment at not reuniting with fellow cast members during such a significant event. To fill his role in the live reading of the show’s pilot episode, Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of the acclaimed musical “Hamilton,” graciously stepped in, showcasing his support for Van Der Beek and the project.

The reunion event featured appearances from notable cast members including Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Busy Philipps, among others. Their collective presence underscored the enduring legacy and impact that “Dawson’s Creek” has had on its audience since its debut in the late 1990s. Following Van Der Beek’s heartfelt message, Miranda humorously noted the lack of an understudy for Van Der Beek, a nod to the tradition of live theater, while emphasizing the need for timely solutions.

The charity event was not only a reunion but also a fundraiser benefiting the nonprofit organization F Cancer, aimed at raising awareness and supporting individuals facing cancer. After the reading concluded, Van Der Beek returned onscreen to introduce renowned Tony Award nominee Norm Lewis, who delivered a moving rendition of “The Music of the Night” from the legendary musical “The Phantom of the Opera.” Lewis holds a historic distinction as the first African-American actor to star in the title role of that production.

The evening also featured greetings from distinguished filmmaker Steven Spielberg, who played a significant role within the series narrative, further enriching the occasion. The event closed with a spirited performance by Renée Elise Goldsberry, also from “Hamilton,” who sang the show’s theme song, “I Don’t Want To Wait,” accompanied by the cast and Van Der Beek’s family.

As fans reflect on the cultural impact of “Dawson’s Creek,” the reunion serves as a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling and community support during difficult times. Media News Source