Kids know when I’m ‘in pain’

James Van Der Beek says his children have become his unexpected caretakers amid his journey with colon cancer.

The “Dawson’s Creek” alum publicly shared the news of his diagnosis last November.

“I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” Van Der Beek, 48, exclusively told People at the time. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”

The “Varsity Blues” star has been married to his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek (née Brook), since 2010. The couple share six children: daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah.

During his July 30 appearance on the “Today” show, Van Der Beek recalled the experience of discussing his diagnosis with his kids.

“I’m far from an expert, but our approach was just to be as honest as possible, as honest to the degree of their understanding,” he explained.

“They know. They can sense that Dad’s having a tough day. They know if Dad’s in pain,” he continued. “By not telling them, I think you’re confusing them even more.”

Van Der Beek said he’s learned that children are often stronger than adults give them credit for.

“Allow yourself to be surprised by their resiliency,” he said. “When you tell them what you’re doing, and you tell them the approach, they can see it, and they can feel it. And I think it’s also that your journey is their journey.”

He spoke about how his children have supported him through his journey, urging others not to “rob them of the opportunity to show up for you.”

“I have [my] kids making me tea. ‘Dad, what do you need?’ There’s been a lot of beauty that’s come out of it,” he said.

In an Instagram video posted on March 8, Van Der Beek opened up about being away from his family while undergoing treatment.

“I was away for treatment, so I could no longer be a husband who was helpful to my wife,” he explained in the clip. “I could no longer be a father who could pick up his kids and put them to bed and be there for them. I could not be a provider because I wasn’t working.”

Van Der Beek’s wife was in the studio during his appearance on the “Today” show on Wednesday and appeared briefly on screen.

Despite his battle, he said he is “feeling great” at the moment.

“There are just so many ups and downs and so many unknowns,” he explained. “Cancer is — I call it a full-time job.”

Van Der Beek is continuing to work despite the diagnosis, having just finished filming “Elle,” a “Legally Blonde” prequel series slated for release on Prime Video in summer 2026.