James Van Der Beek was forced to miss the anticipated Dawson's Creek reunion on Monday night after falling ill during his treatment for colorectal cancer. James intended to join his co-stars at the event but was forced to pull out days before after suffering from two stomach viruses. James surprised fans with a virtual appearance, appearing in a pre-recorded video as the entire cast of Dawson's Creek reunited for the first time in 22 years. The entire cast of Dawson's Creek reunited for the first time in 22 years. Dawson's Creek aired from 1998 through 2003 on The WB and garnered a number of accolades during its time on the air, such as a Teen Choice Award in 2000 for TV - Choice Drama.