91Èȱ¬

American actor James Van Der Beek says he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

The 47-year-old, known for starring in the TV series Dawson's Creek and the film Varsity Blues, told People magazine about his diagnosis and treatment.

"I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it," he told the outlet.

Van Der Beek says there is reason for "optimism" and that he is "feeling good".

91Èȱ¬ News has reached out to a representative for the actor.

Colorectal cancer develops from growths in the colon's inner lining and can spread if not treated, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

More men develop this form of cancer than women. Increased screenings have helped detect it early - lowering the number of people who die from colorectal cancer, the clinic notes.

Van Der Beek starred in multiple popular shows and films in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He played Dawson Leery in the hit TV show Dawson's Creek, which ran from 1998 to 2003.

He also played a fictionalised version of himself in the cult television show Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23, and he performed on the 28th US season of Dancing with the Stars.

Van Der Beek has continued working through his diagnosis.

He has two projects in production, including a Tubi original film called Sidelined: The QB and Me, which is due to come out later this month.