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James Van Der Beek Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer: 'There’s Reason for Optimism, and I’m Feeling Good'

James Van Der Beek has colorectal cancer, PEOPLE can confirm. 'I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,' the star, 47, tells PEOPLE exclusively.

I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” the star, 47, tells PEOPLE exclusively. "The kids were rock stars, my friends became brothers, and despite all the travel and time zone crossing and early-morning alarms, I feel recharged." Later in December, Van Der Beek is set to appear on The Real Full Monty, a two-hour special where a group of male celebrities will strip down to raise awareness for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research.

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