James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, has always been open about his personal life, and recently, he shared a deeply personal story with PEOPLE magazine. Alongside his wife, Kimberly, Van Der Beek discussed not only his ongoing battle with colorectal cancer but also revealed that he underwent a vasectomy several years ago—a decision made before his cancer diagnosis, which has since added more weight to their family journey.
In this article, we will dive deeper into James and Kimberly’s family life, their journey with cancer, the tough decisions they made along the way, and how they continue to find strength together as they navigate the stormy waters of illness and family.
Who Is James Van Der Beek?
James Van Der Beek, a familiar face to many, rose to fame as the charming and introspective Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, which became a pop culture phenomenon in the late 1990s. Over the years, he’s continued his acting career, but it’s his role as a father that has defined him in recent years. James has been married to Kimberly Brook since 2010, and together they share six children: Olivia (14), Joshua (12), Annabel (10), Emilia (8), Gwen (6), and Jeremiah (3).
In interviews, James often shares stories of his big family, reflecting on how chaotic yet fulfilling their lives are. He’s proven to be an open book when it comes to the joys and struggles of parenthood, and this candidness extends to the family’s approach to health challenges, including James’s recent cancer diagnosis.
James and Kimberly’s Family Journey
For James and Kimberly, having a large family wasn’t necessarily a part of their plan. In fact, they’ve admitted that they didn’t set out to have six kids—it simply happened. “We had one planned child,” Kimberly laughs. “The rest? Well, it was a surprise each time!” But despite the surprises, they’ve embraced every moment of parenthood, And the result is a vibrant family with a dynamic mix of personalities, each of which contributes to the vibrancy of the family.
Despite their unexpected journey into large family hood, the couple always knew they’d stop at six children. As much as they loved their growing brood, James, with his usual humor, was clear about their decision. “I thought the only way to stop it was if we had some medical intervention, ”he quips. That intervention came in the form of a vasectomy, which James underwent years ago.
The Decision to Have a Vasectomy
At some point, James and Kimberly decided they were done expanding their family. They wanted to be able to focus on raising the children they had, and, for James, the vasectomy was a practical solution. But this wasn’t just a decision about preventing more children—it was about taking control of their family’s future. James laughs at the fact that only one of their six children was planned, but he also acknowledges how lucky they were to have had an uncomplicated path to parenthood.
For many couples, deciding to stop having children is a significant moment. For James and Kimberly, it was just another chapter in their evolving family story.
The Vasectomy Experience
When it came time for James to undergo the procedure, he recalls his daughter Gwen’s reaction with fondness. “I said, ‘Guys, I’ve had some surgery on my private parts,’” he recounts. “My youngest daughter looked me straight in the eye and said, ‘Daddy, I hope your vagina feels better.’” The family burst into laughter at her innocent comment, showcasing the Van Der Beek family’s ability to find humor in almost any situation.
James’s lighthearted approach to the procedure reflects the fun and laid-back attitude he and Kimberly share in their relationship and parenting style. Even in the face of big life changes, they find moments of joy and laughter.
James Van Der Beek’s Cancer Diagnosis
In 2023, James was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, a shocking revelation that has altered the course of his life. For someone who had just undergone a vasectomy to prevent any more surprises, this diagnosis seemed like another unexpected twist. James spoke openly about the shock of hearing the news, explaining that the diagnosis was completely out of the blue. But despite the shock, he quickly adopted a positive mindset, drawing strength from his family, especially his wife, Kimberly.
Cancer is never an easy diagnosis to process, and for James, the emotional weight of the illness has been heavy. However, his unwavering bond with Kimberly and their children has been a source of great strength throughout the process.
Dealing with Colorectal Cancer: The Emotional Journey
James’s cancer journey has not only tested his physical endurance but has also pushed him and Kimberly to new emotional depths. “There’s no way to get through this without her,” James says, tears welling in his eyes. Kimberly, as the primary caregiver, has been a rock for James, offering love and support every step of the way. The couple acknowledges that their relationship has grown even stronger as they face this challenge together.
Through the ups and downs of chemotherapy and treatment, James has leaned on his family to keep him grounded. His children, though understandably scared, have shown immense love and support, offering emotional comfort in ways that only children can.
Life on the Ranch in Texas
In 2020, the Van Der Beeks made a big change: they left the bustling streets of Beverly Hills behind and moved to a sprawling ranch in Texas. This change was motivated by a desire for more space, freedom, and a simpler lifestyle. For James, the ranch life brought a refreshing sense of peace, and he often speaks of how it’s helped him reconnect with nature and with his family.
Life on the ranch has also been a distraction from the stress of James’s cancer diagnosis. With 30 chickens, five dogs, and a bearded dragon named Sharla, the family’s ranch has become a haven of joy and tranquility. This move to Texas has also provided them they are given the emotional space to reflect on their lives and appreciate the simple pleasures that are often overlooked in busy urban environments.
The Couple’s Toughest Moments: Miscarriages and Loss
James and Kimberly have faced their share of heartache in the past. They’ve experienced five miscarriages, two of which were late-term and nearly fatal. These tragic losses tested their resilience, but they never let the hardships define them. Instead, they drew strength from each other and their faith, finding new depths of love and commitment as they faced these challenges.
Their ability to overcome personal losses is one of the many reasons why they’re able to tackle James’s cancer diagnosis with such strength and perspective.
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Living with Cancer: A Shift in Perspective
Since the cancer diagnosis, James has gained a new outlook on life. He speaks about savoring moments with his family, finding beauty in the mundane, and deeply appreciating the gift of life. His cancer journey has brought them closer as a family, and though it has been an incredibly difficult year, there is an underlying sense of gratitude for each day they have together.
James’s Relationship with His Children
James’s kids have been coping with his illness in their own ways. They’re scared, of course, but they’ve been incredibly supportive and loving. James admits that humor has played a big part in helping his children deal with the situation. One of his favorite “battles” with his kids is over the way they refer to his illness—“butt cancer,” as his children jokingly call it.
Despite the challenges, James’s ability to laugh with his family through the tough times has been a vital part of their healing process.
Kimberly’s Role as a Caregiver
As James’s primary caregiver, Kimberly has had to carry a lot of the emotional and physical weight of the situation. She acknowledges how difficult this role can be but emphasizes the importance of staying present for James. The couple’s deep love and commitment have only grown stronger as they navigate this difficult chapter in their lives.
Humor in Difficult Times: Finding Joy Despite Adversity
Humor has been a key part of James’s coping mechanism throughout his illness. Whether it’s his daughter’s innocent remarks about his surgery or his self-deprecating jokes about the cancer, James believes that laughter is a vital part of healing. His positive attitude and lighthearted approach have been a beacon of hope for his family during dark times.
The Importance of Family Support During Illness
James has said time and again that he couldn’t get through this illness without the support of his family. His children, his wife, and his extended family have rallied around him, offering love, support, and comfort when he needed it most. The power of family during times of crisis cannot be understated, and for James, the strength of his loved ones has been a lifeline.
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Conclusion
James and Kimberly Van Der Beek’s journey has been one of unexpected surprises, heartache, and, most importantly, love. From their large family to James’s recent cancer diagnosis, they have faced many challenges, but their bond has only grown stronger. Through humor, perseverance, and the support of each other, they continue to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and gratitude.
FAQs
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What led to James Van Der Beek’s decision to get a vasectomy?
- James and Kimberly decided to stop having children after their sixth child, and James opted for a vasectomy as a form of permanent birth control.
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How has James Van Der Beek’s cancer diagnosis affected his family?
- His family has been deeply supportive, offering emotional comfort and care throughout his treatment. The kids have been scared but have shown love and tenderness.
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What is life like for the Van Der Beek family on their ranch in Texas?
- The family enjoys a simpler, more peaceful lifestyle in Texas, with animals and wide open spaces. It’s been a place of healing and freedom for them.
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How have James and Kimberly coped with miscarriages in their past?
- Despite the heartbreak, the couple has drawn strength from each other and their faith. Their shared experiences have made their bond even stronger.
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How does humor play a role in James Van Der Beek’s cancer journey?
- Humor has been a crucial coping mechanism for James and his family. Laughter helps lighten the emotional load and keeps their spirits up during tough times.