James Van Der Beek's wife, Kimberly, is reflecting on the "special" Dawson's Creek reunion, expressing her gratitude to all of those who made the night happen -- despite her husband's absence. Van Der Beek -- who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in November 2024 -- wasn't able to attend, citing "two stomach viruses" for his absence. It was such a gift," began Kimberly, who shares Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah with Van Der Beek. She went on to share what the reunion meant to Van Der Beek and their family. "Obviously, on Dawson's Creek, I had no understudy, but this is Broadway, and I needed one.