Dawson's Creeks star James Van Der Beek says he has 'a lot to live for' amid colorectal cancer battle

Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek has spoken out after revealing his colorectal cancer diagnosis.

The American actor, 47, said in a new interview with People that he's keeping positive amid his diagnosis as he's "got a lot to live for".

"I've really been so blessed with my wife and kids," he told the publication.

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"I've got a lot to live for, and it's a beautiful life."

The star added he's so grateful for the outpouring of love and support he's received after revealing his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer.

"I really do want to just shout out to my friends who were able to sit with my pain and sit with my discomfort and not immediately try to solve it or rationalise it, but to just accept it and be there with me," he added.

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Van Der Beek revealed his shock cancer diagnosis to People earlier this month, saying he had been "privately dealing" with the health scare.

"There's reason for optimism, and I'm feeling good," he said.

In an Instagram post, the star explained he shared the news earlier than expected with People after he "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…" he wrote.

"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."

He added: "I've been dealing with this privately until now, getting treatment and dialing in my overall health with greater focus than ever before. I'm in a good place and feeling strong."

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