James Van Der Beek's cancer diagnosis was revealed ahead of schedule.

James Van Der Beek is suffering from colorectal cancer.

The actor, who is best known for his roles in "Dawson's Creek" and "Varsity Blues," announced his diagnosis in a statement to People magazine over the weekend, but later stated that he had initially wanted to keep it private until a later date.

In an Instagram post, Van Der Beek stated, "I have cancer, which is diagnosed to approximately 2 billion people worldwide each year."

He continued, "There is no playbook for announcing these things, but I had planned on discussing it in detail with People magazine at some point soon. My intention was to raise awareness and tell my story on my own terms. However, my plan had to be changed early this morning when I learned that a tabloid was going to publish the news."

He had been dealing with his health issues privately, focusing on getting treatment and improving his overall well-being with more intensity than ever before.

He too stated, "I am currently in a positive state and feeling robust. This journey has been quite the onboarding process, and I will share more details when I am prepared to do so."

Van Der Beek apologized to those he knew personally who learned about his diagnosis through the media, acknowledging that the process had not happened on his preferred timeline. However, he embraced each surprise as a signpost, leading him towards a greater destiny that he may not have discovered without divine intervention.

He expressed gratitude to his followers for their affection and stated that there would be further developments.

Kimberly, his wife of 14 years, left a comment on his post, expressing her love with the words "I love you baby" and a heart emoji.

The father of six privately dealt with a colorectal cancer diagnosis and took steps to resolve it with the support of his family, as he stated in his original statement to People.

"I feel good and there's reason for optimism," he added.

The Mayo Clinic suggests that various treatments can manage colorectal cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, and medications such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. People with an average risk of cancer should begin preventative screenings at 45.

Van Der Beek, 47, earned an acting credit for appearing in a June episode of "Walker" this year. A movie, "Sidelined The QB and Me," premieres on Tubi later this month.

In December, he will participate in a Fox special titled "The Real Full Monty," alongside actors Taye Diggs, Tyler Posey, Anthony Anderson, Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, and "Dancing with the Stars" judge Bruno Toniolo, to raise awareness about prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research by stripping down.

He disclosed his personal struggle with the disease months before he first announced his involvement with the special in May.

Diggs spoke to People about the special, stating that when the cast gathered, they "really began discussing these issues, everyone started sharing, and we gained a deeper understanding of one another."

Instead of being a cute striptease with middle-aged men, it meant something, as he said.

In the promo, the actors appear to be removing their clothing, just like in the movie "Full Monty."

The special airs on Fox on Dec. 9.