The Surprise Virtual Message
On September 22, 2025, the Richard Rodgers Theatre buzzed with nostalgia as the original Dawson’s Creek cast gathered for a one‑night‑only reading of the pilot episode. Fans expected to see James Van Der Beek stride onto the stage as Dawson Leery, but a bout of two stomach viruses forced the 48‑year‑old star to pull out just a day before the event.
Rather than disappear, Van Der Beek recorded a video from his home. In the clip he struggled to hide his disappointment, saying, “I’ve been looking forward to this night for months, ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she was putting it together.” He went on to thank every person in the theater, the crew, the donors, and, most of all, the fans who have stuck by him through his stage 3 colorectal cancer battle.
The video was played on the big screen just as the lights dimmed, and the audience gave a standing ovation. It turned what could have been a missed opportunity into a poignant reminder of the real‑life friendships that grew out of the show’s fictional Creek relationships.
Highlights from the Night
With Van Der Beek offstage, the organizers turned to Broadway royalty. Lin‑Manuel Miranda, fresh from a run on Hamilton, stepped into the role of Dawson, delivering the opening monologue with a mix of reverence and a dash of his signature flair. He even paused to introduce Van Der Beek’s video, creating a seamless bridge between the virtual and the live.
The reading itself featured the full original lineup:
- Michelle Williams as Jen Walker
- Katie Holmes as Joey Potts
- Joshua Jackson as Pacey Wadsworth
- Busy Philipps as Ki Cunningham
- Kerr Smith as Jack McPhee
- Meredith Monroe as Andie McPhee
- and many supporting alumni who dropped by for cameos.
When the reading wrapped, a heart‑warming surprise stole the spotlight: Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, and their six children joined the cast onstage. The family sang the iconic theme song together, a moment that sent the audience into an emotional wave of cheers and tears.
The event doubled as a fundraiser for F Cancer, the organization that supports Van Der Beek’s treatment and research into colorectal cancers. Thanks to ticket sales, donations, and a generous silent auction, the night raised a six‑figure sum that will directly fund patient assistance programs.
Social media lit up after the show. Van Der Beek posted a candid message about his illness, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love. Fans responded with memes, heartfelt comments, and pledges to keep the fundraising momentum going.
Beyond the numbers, the reunion underscored how a TV drama that ended two decades ago still commands a passionate fanbase. The cast’s willingness to rally around a teammate in need showed that the bond forged on set was more than just on‑screen chemistry.
As the lights went down at the Rodgers Theatre, the message was clear: Dawson’s Creek isn’t just a piece of 90s nostalgia—it’s a community that can lift each other up, even when life throws a curveball.