James Van Der Beek looks healthy in new photos amid cancer battle… months after sparking concern with ‘frail’ appearance

James Van Der Beek looked happy and healthy in new social media photos after his wife recently declared the star is ‘bouncing back’ amid his years-long battle with cancer.

The Dawson’s Creek alum, 48, was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023 but did not go public with the diagnosis until the following year.

Less than three months ago, James sparked fan concern with his ‘frail’ appearance during the Dawson’s Creek reunion in September.

But on Wednesday, the father-of-six had noticeably rosy cheeks and appeared to have put on healthy weight as he posed next to NBC’s Craig Melvin at his sprawling ranch in Texas.

James taped a candid one-on-one interview with Melvin, which is set to air Friday morning on the Today show.

For the sit-down, James wore a brown and red knit cardigan over a plain white T-shirt, green cargo pants and lace-up boots.

The star looked to be in a jovial mood during the interview taping, often smiling at Melvin and for the cameras.

Melvin posted the photos of James to Instagram on Wednesday to tease the ‘inspiring’ conversation before it is televised. 

‘Spent the day in TX on James Van Der Beek’s ranch (@vanderjames) Overcast and dreary outside but James is quite the ray of positivity these days,’ the 46-year-old reporter began in the caption of his post.

‘It was refreshing and inspiring. We talked about where he is on his journey, the importance of cancer screenings, and how he’s finding joy in family and faith. Our convo coming up Friday am on @todayshow’

James’ healthier look has been on display in recent weeks.

Days before the Thanksgiving holiday, the star appeared in an Instagram video promoting the sale of merchandise from his classic 1999 movie Varsity Blues.

It was his second time selling merchandise connected to his iconic film and TV projects to help pay for his cancer treatments – and those of other patients.

Varsity Blues, which was about high school football, starred James as Jonathan ‘Mox’ Moxon amid a cast that included Jon Voight, Paul Walker and Scott Caan.

In the Instagram video where he appeared with a fuller face and glowing complexion, James promoted a white shirt with his number 4 and name Moxon on to help raise money.

He penned in the caption: ‘By popular demand! My favorite jersey. Maybe it was all fun plays we got run in the football sequences for the away games… but I always loved putting on the varsity whites.

‘Last year when I released the Blues jersey, I was blown away by the love and support I received from all of you. It has meant more than I can ever express.

‘I hope you enjoy this one as much as the original. For me, every jersey I sign is a magical full-circle moment.

‘Thank you for the love, the prayers, the support, and for making this jersey mean something far bigger than a movie. Endlessly grateful for all of you.

‘Proceeds go directly toward helping with treatment and supporting families walking the same path. Limited quantities – link in bio. Promise I’ll get the signed ones turned around quicker this time #varistyblues.’

His devoted wife Kimberly then commented underneath saying: ‘You’re a wizard. Bouncing back baby!!’ The pair share six children. 

He sold similar merchandise from the film last year soon after he revealed his diagnosis.

Earlier this month, James put a number of his cherished Dawson’s Creek keepsakes on auction to help pay for his ‘expensive’ cancer treatments.

He teamed up with Propstore to sell items from his personal collection during their Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, which was held from December 5–7.

Among the pieces fans had a chance to own was the outfit he wore in the pilot episode, which was expected to sell for up to $4,000 according to People. According to Propstore, the outfit sold for $3369.25.

Also up for grabs was the necklace Dawson gifted Joey Potter (played by Katie Holmes) for prom, which was estimated to sell for anywhere between $26,400 to $52,800.

According to Propstore, the necklace ended up selling for $33,692.53 with three bids.

Before the auction, James admitted he was feeling nostalgic about parting with the items, but added that with the recent ‘unexpected twists and turns’ in his life it’s the right time to do so. 

‘I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now,’ the father-of-six shared. 

‘While I have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these items, it feels good to be able to offer them through Propstore’s auction to share with those who have supported my work over the years.’ 

All proceeds from the sale went to James to help cover the expenses of his cancer treatment. 

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. among men and women combined. 

154,270 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with colon and rectal cancer in 2025, and 52,900 will die from the disease, according to estimates by The American Cancer Society.

James revealed his diagnosis in November 2024.

He recently sparked concern among fans over his noticeably frail figure after appearing virtually at a Dawson’s Creek reunion. He was initially due to appear in person but had to cancel due to ill health. 

Back in November 2024, James spoke about his diagnosis and said he was feeling good. 

‘Miracles do happen, and they happen all the time,’ he told People at the time. 

‘It’s scary at the onset. It’s overwhelming. Go easy on yourself. You got this.’ 

He added: ‘I’ve really been so blessed with my wife and kids. I’ve got a lot to live for, and it’s a beautiful life.’