Colorectal Cancer Alliance Mourns the Loss of James Van Der Beek

The Colorectal Cancer Alliance (Alliance) is deeply saddened by the passing of James Van Der Beek at the age of 48 following his battle with colorectal cancer.

James was more than a beloved actor and cultural icon to millions who grew up watching him on screen — he was also a devoted husband, father, and advocate who faced his diagnosis with courage and openness. The Alliance partnered with FOX to bring awareness to James’ colorectal cancer diagnosis on The Real Full Monty in December of 2024. By sharing parts of his journey, he helped shine a light on a disease that too often remains stigmatized or overlooked, particularly among younger adults.

Colorectal cancer is the deadliest cancer among people under 50, and the second deadliest overall in the United States, yet it receives less funding than other major cancers. In recent years, we have seen an alarming rise in diagnoses among people under 50 — a reminder that this disease does not discriminate and that awareness, timely screening, increased funding, accelerated science, and access to care are critical.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to James’s wife, their six children, and all who loved him. We honor the strength he demonstrated throughout his journey and the humanity he showed in sharing it.

In his memory, we urge everyone to learn their risk, talk to their doctor about screening at age 45 or sooner for high risk individuals, and take action by supporting the Alliance’s Project Cure CRC initiative to drive progress at colorectalcancer.org/cureCRC.  Through Project Cure CRC, the Alliance remains committed to ending this disease in our lifetime.

We honor James’ life and legacy, and we stand with every family impacted by colorectal cancer.

About the Colorectal Cancer Alliance

The Colorectal Cancer Alliance empowers a nation of passionate and determined allies to prevent, treat, and overcome colorectal cancer in their lives and communities. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Alliance advocates for prevention through initiatives like LEAD FROM BEHIND, magnifies support with BlueHQ, and accelerates science toward cures through Project Cure CRC. We are the largest national nonprofit dedicated to colorectal cancer, and we exist to end this disease in our lifetime. For more information, visit colorectalcancer.org.