Dawson's Creek Stars Rally Around James Van Der Beek in Battle Against Colon Cancer
Dawson's Creek Alums Rally Around James Van Der Beek Amidst Cancer Battle
It's been a tough time for the beloved Dawson's Creek family, but they're coming together in support of their dear friend and former on-screen son, James Van Der Beek. The 48-year-old actor was recently diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, and his co-stars are rallying around him like never before.
A Familiar Fight for Mary-Margaret Humes
Veteran actress Mary-Margaret Humes, who played the iconic role of Gale Leery on Dawson's Creek, knows firsthand the importance of early detection. In 2007, she went through her own private battle with colon cancer, and it eerily reminded her of James' current situation.
"It was just about ready to break out of the wall," Mary-Margaret recalled in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly. "It could've been a terrible situation, but we caught it in time. My doctor said we dodged a bullet, and it was all because of early detection." She emphasized that cancers are survivable, but only if you go out and get screened - something James is now doing as part of his journey.
A Bond Like No Other
Mary-Margaret has been having "uplifting and spiritual" conversations with James about his battle, reassuring him that she's got his back 100 percent. "He knows I've got his back, and he's going to get through this," she said confidently. The two have maintained a close relationship over the years, and it's no surprise they're coming together in support of each other now.
A Star-Studded Reunion
Next Monday, the Dawson's Creek cast will reunite at the Richard Rodgers Theater in Midtown Manhattan for the "Dawson's Creek Class Reunion" event, benefiting James' cancer awareness campaign and the non-profit F* Cancer. The sold-out show will feature a live reading of the 1998 pilot episode, with an all-star ensemble including Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson, Mary Beth Peil, John Wesley Shipp, Nina Repeta, Kerr Smith, Meredith Monroe, Busy Philipps, and more.
A Phone Call from James
Mary-Margaret shared that her first phone call was actually from James himself. "He told me that Michelle was spearheading this, and it was a way for us to actually have a reunion, all of us together, and celebrate his life," she explained. She emphasized the importance of the event, which aims to raise awareness about early detection.
From Controversy to Comfort
Mary-Margaret's portrayal of Gale Leery on Dawson's Creek was always a source of tension, but her co-stars and fans alike loved her for it. "I was nicknamed 'den mother' on set because I would take the kids under my wing," she said with a smile. However, it was clear that everyone in the cast just clicked - there were no ego problems to speak of.
A Family Reunion Like No Other
In fact, Mary-Margaret described the Dawson's Creek experience as "a family" where everyone gelled together seamlessly. "There were tense moments behind the scenes from time to time, but that will remain a mystery!" she joked.
From TV Mums to Celebrity Weakest Link
In addition to the reunion event, Mary-Margaret will also be competing on Fox's game show Celebrity Weakest Link next Monday - alongside Melinda Clarke, Caroline Rhea, and Jackée Harry. The episode is themed around TV moms, and it promises to be a fun and entertaining watch.
A Legacy of Love
Mary-Margaret has been in the entertainment industry for decades, starting as Miss Florida USA 1975 before making her big-screen debut as Miriam in Mel Brooks' 1981 comedy History of the World, Part I. Her legacy on Dawson's Creek will always be remembered, and now she's passing on that love and support to James during his toughest time.
