AceShowbiz - James Van Der Beek, known for his role on "Dawson's Creek", revealed his diagnosis in a statement to PEOPLE. He expressed regret for not being able to tell his loved ones personally prior to his interview. "Apologies to all the people in my life who I'd planned on telling myself," he said.

Van Der Beek emphasized that he intended to share his story publicly on his own terms, to raise awareness and provide his perspective. However, he had to alter his plans after being informed that a tabloid was going to publish the information.

"It is cancer ... Each year, approximately 2 billion people around the world receive this diagnosis. And I'm one of them," Van Der Beek began his Instagram post. "There's no playbook for how announce these things, but I'd planned on talking about it at length with People magazine at some point soon ... to raise awareness and tell my story on my own terms. But that plan had to be altered early this morning when I was informed that a tabloid was going to run with the news."

The actor described himself as feeling "good and strong" and shared that he has been receiving treatment and prioritizing his overall health. He also expressed gratitude for the support he and his family have received.

Despite the unfortunate circumstances, Van Der Beek remained positive and embraced the experience as a signpost towards unexpected growth. He concluded his message by promising to share more details when he was ready.

In the statement to PEOPLE, Van Der Beek emphasized that he has been "privately dealing with this diagnosis and taking steps to resolve it." He also expressed optimism and confidence in his well-being.