James Van Der Beek on How The Real Full Monty Taught Him the Importance of Asking for ‘Help’ After Cancer Diagnosis (Exclusive)

James Van Der Beek’s participation in The Real Full Monty has evolved into a deeply personal and impactful journey, shedding light on his battle with colorectal cancer while encouraging men to prioritize their health and seek cancer screenings. In this emotionally charged special, Van Der Beek bravely opens up about his diagnosis, explaining that he had initially kept it private but was prompted to reveal it due to the likelihood of tabloid coverage. His candidness has resonated with viewers, as the actor shares not just his personal story but also the emotional toll of dealing with cancer while attempting to maintain a normal life​.

The show’s premise is based on the British comedy The Full Monty, where a group of men perform a striptease to raise awareness for cancer. While the physical performance is a central part of the show, it is the vulnerability and shared personal stories that truly set the tone. For Van Der Beek, this special is more than just an entertainment piece—it is a platform to encourage men to talk openly about their health struggles and remove the stigma surrounding medical checkups​.

Through his participation, Van Der Beek has found a way to channel his diagnosis into a cause that helps others. He shares that one of the most valuable lessons he’s learned is the importance of asking for help. Cancer, often a deeply isolating experience, forced Van Der Beek to lean on friends, family, and professionals more than ever before. His involvement in The Real Full Monty became a way to not only support others but also to find healing for himself, demonstrating the power of community and openness in the face of adversity​.

The emotional depth of Van Der Beek’s involvement is evident in his interactions with the other participants, including choreographer Mandy Moore and fellow celebrities like Taye Diggs. Through rehearsals and conversations, Van Der Beek connects with others who have also experienced the pain of cancer, sharing stories of loss and survival, further deepening the program’s emotional weight. The moment when Bruno Tonioli, one of the participants, breaks down in response to Van Der Beek’s vulnerability adds a poignant layer to the overall experience​.

Ultimately, The Real Full Monty serves not only as a way to entertain but also as an important platform to de-stigmatize cancer screenings. Van Der Beek’s openness encourages others to take the necessary steps to monitor their health, making this show a heartfelt testament to both the power of resilience and the importance of self-care in the face of potentially life-threatening diseases​.