Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek reveals cancer diagnosis

James Van Der Beek has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer – and has apologised to loved ones who heard the news through the media rather than from him directly.

Speaking with People, the actor revealed his diagnosis, adding he is remaining optimistic about his health.

"I've been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family," Van Der Beek told the publication.

Hours later, in an Instagram post, the Dawson's Creek star explained his announcement via the magazine had been unexpectedly fast-tracked, meaning he didn't get a chance to speak to some people in his life before the news was shared.

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"There's no playbook for how announce these things, but I'd planned on talking about it at length with People magazine at some point soon … to raise awareness and tell my story on my own terms," he wrote.

"But that plan had to be altered early this morning when I was informed that a tabloid was going to run with the news.

"Apologies to all the people in my life who I'd planned on telling myself. Nothing about this process has occurred on my preferred timeline…

"But we roll with it, taking each surprise as a signpost, pointing us toward a greater destiny than we would have discovered without divine intervention. Please know that my family and I deeply appreciate all the love and support."

Van Der Beek is best known for his work as Dawson Leery on Dawson's Creek, also appearing in show's including Varsity Blues and One Tree Hill.

And it seems the actor isn't letting his diagnosis get in the way of his work.

Van Der Beek recently appeared in an episode of Jared Padelecki-led drama series Walker, and is also set to star in the upcoming film, Sidelined: The QB and Me.

Then, later in December, the actor is signed on to appear on The Real Full Monty.

The two-hour special features Van Der Beek alongside All American star Taye Diggs, Kansas City Chiefs player Chris Jones, and Dancing with the Stars judge Bruno Toniolo.

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The four celebrities will be stripping down in an attempt to raise awareness for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research.

The event is inspired by the 1997 Oscar-nominated film The Full Monty, and is set to be executive produced by Black-ish actor, Anthony Anderson.

"Don't die of embarrassment. Get checked! That's the message behind The Real Full Monty special," Anderson said in a statement.

"I am honoured to lead the charge of rallying these fearless men to bare it all, in order to provoke, inspire and in this case, beg you to get screened for cancer. That's our goal…so what are you waiting for!?"

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