James Van Der Beek ditches ‘impossible’ New Year’s resolutions amid cancer battle as fans hail actor’s ‘healthy’ appearance

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James Van Der Beek recently talked about New Year’s resolutions while also sharing updates on his fight against stage three colorectal cancer.

Okay, let’s be real – I’m seeing a lot of people struggle with their New Year’s resolutions, and honestly, I’m right there with you! I recently shared that I’m finding it so hard to stick to mine. It’s making me think that maybe setting these big goals in January just doesn’t work with how we’re naturally wired as humans. It feels a bit forced, doesn’t it? I’m starting to believe we need to find a rhythm that works with our bodies and minds, not against them.

Fans were happy to see actor Van Der Beek looking strong and healthy in a recent video, especially after some had previously expressed concern about his health.

Oh my gosh, he was just wearing a grey sweater and a white t-shirt, but he was SO right! He was saying winter isn’t about pushing yourself with fitness, it’s about cocooning – just staying cozy and comfortable inside. Honestly, it’s exactly what I needed to hear! Forget goals, give me blankets and comfy clothes!

He kicked off the video by asking his followers if anyone else had already given up on their New Year’s resolution.

I have a thought. I don’t believe this is your fault, and it actually seems logical. Why do we celebrate the New Year during the coldest part of winter?

He went on to ask why we mark fresh starts when the natural world is at rest. He pointed out that animals are hibernating and birds are migrating to warmer climates for the winter.

Van Der Beek explained that spring, specifically the vernal equinox, is the perfect time to celebrate fresh starts and new goals, as it’s when nature itself is reborn with blooming flowers, warmer weather, and returning birds.

‘That’s how nature does it. Why are we fighting nature?’ he questioned.

Honestly, while I respect Pope Gregory VIII and understand he created the Gregorian calendar, it doesn’t really seem logical.

He suggested a new way to organize the calendar. He explained that if March became the first month, then September would be the seventh, October the eighth, November the ninth, and December the tenth – essentially creating a more logical sequence.

Van Der Beek ended the video by saying he plans to spend the winter relaxing and recharging, and will wait until spring to make his New Year’s resolutions. He then asked his followers if they wanted to join him in this approach.

He questioned why everyone focuses on getting in shape during winter, asking, ‘Why push gym memberships when the season is perfect for cozying up, enjoying comfort food, and getting extra rest? The short days and long nights seem like a time for relaxing, not working out!’

People praised the actor’s healthy look, and a lot of viewers felt January isn’t a good month to start making resolutions.

‘Looking healthy and strong brother. Praying for your health,’ one commented.

‘Love this idea! Good to hear from you and you look great! Hope you are doing well,’ another added. 

Actress Alyssa Milano wrote, ‘I’m with you. I love this.’

Tyler Posey added, ‘Love this. Same.’

One fan enthusiastically agreed, saying, ‘I feel the same way! Let’s celebrate in the spring! Don’t give up – the world needs your positivity!’

Fans became concerned in September when the actor appeared much thinner during a virtual reunion of the show Dawson’s Creek.

He explained in December that his recent weight loss wasn’t caused by cancer, but by a stomach bug he had been dealing with.

‘I’d lost so much weight because of the stomach virus,’ he explained to Today show’s Craig Melvin.

He explained the weight loss wasn’t due to cancer, and jokingly compared how cancer treatment often seems to worsen existing symptoms, like turning a stomach virus into something much bigger.

The father-of-six also gave a positive health update on his cancer battle.

I’ve been gradually feeling better each month. It’s definitely been challenging, demanding more patience and self-control from me.

“I discovered a strength within myself that I didn’t realize I possessed,” the star shared during a heartfelt discussion. “I always thought I was strong, but this is a different level.”

James shared with People magazine that he’s facing colorectal cancer, and he’s relying on his wonderful family for support during this difficult time.

The actor and his wife, Kimberly, have six children: daughters Olivia (15), Annabel (12), Emilia (9), and Gwendolyn (7), and sons Joshua (13) and Jeremiah (4).

Van Der Beek revealed his stage three colorectal cancer diagnosis in November 2024.

He has since made major lifestyle changes such as focusing on a healthier diet and doing yoga.

He shared during an interview on Today that he’s focusing on slowing down, prioritizing rest, and viewing that as his main focus right now, explaining he’s simply enjoying the process.

The Hollywood actor added, ‘It’s a process. It’ll probably be a process for the rest of my life.’

James Van Der Beek became well-known for playing Dawson Leery, an aspiring filmmaker, in the popular teen drama Dawson’s Creek that aired in the late 1990s.

He acted with Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams in the TV show Dawson’s Creek. The show lasted for six seasons, originally airing from January 1998 to May 2003.

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2026-01-16 05:19