James Van Der Beek Gushed About 6th Child Jeremiah Being a ‘Blessing’ to His Family Before Cancer Battle

James often spoke about how much his family meant to him. To mark his 48th birthday in March 2025, the Varsity Blues star reflected on facing his mortality since his cancer diagnosis and how his health journey has impacted his family.

Describing the previous 12 months as “the hardest year of my life,” James said the cancer threw his vision of himself into disarray.

“When I was younger I used to define myself as an actor, which was never really all that fulfilling. And then I became a husband and that was much better. And then I became a father and that was the ultimate,” he explained, adding that he saw himself as a “loving, capable, strong, supportive husband, father, provider, steward of the land.”

When he became physically unable to fulfil some of those roles due to his illness, James said he began questioning his purpose.

“And then this year, I had to look my own mortality in the eye. I came nose to nose with death,” he continued. “All of those definitions that I cared so deeply about were stripped from me. I was away for treatment so I could no longer be a husband who was helpful to my wife. I could no longer be a father who could pick up his kids and put them to bed and be there for them.”

James ended the video by sharing his conclusion that he was still worthy of self-love despite his life circumstances changing.

In November 2025, James once again reflected on his “tough year” and expressed gratitude for his wife, kids and other loved ones for their unwavering support throughout his difficult health journey.

“I’m more grateful than ever to my super human wife who has shown up on levels I never knew possible. Who has shown me what unconditional love is and the magic that comes from that. I am in awe of you, @vanderkimberly,” he wrote via Instagram at the time.

Turning his attention to the couple’s children, Van Der Beek continued, “And of course, I’m beyond thankful [for] the little blond army of hearts who keep me present, active, and inspired just by being you. I love you guys beyond.”