“There is reason for optimism and I feel good” (exclusive)

“I have dealt with this diagnosis privately and, with the support of my incredible family, have taken steps to resolve it,” the actor tells PEOPLE exclusively

James Van Der Beek has colon cancer, PEOPLE can confirm that.

“I have colon cancer. “I have dealt with this diagnosis privately and, with the support of my incredible family, have taken steps to resolve it,” the 47-year-old star tells PEOPLE exclusively.

“There is reason for optimism and I feel good,” adds Van Der Beek.

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer begins in the large intestine or rectum, which form the large intestine in the digestive system.

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See Also: James Van Der Beek, Taye Diggs and More Male Celebrities Bare It All The real Full Monty Particularly

Despite the diagnosis, Van Der Beek has been actively working on managing his care.

He recently appeared in an episode of walker and he will star next Offside: The QB and mean original film from Tubi, released on November 29th.

Van Der Beek also values ​​time with his family – wife Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.

Back in June, the group took an unforgettable trip to Egypt. An Instagram post states: University Blues Alum shared photos of himself and his family posing with a camel, looking at the Egyptian pyramids, and more.

“#Egypt… Despite all my vocabulary, it's what fell out of my mouth most of the time. We were gifted a magical experience, one that I am still processing – and perhaps will remain for the rest of my life,” Van Der Beek wrote in part in his caption. “The kids were rock stars, my friends became brothers, and despite all the travel, time zone crossings, and early morning alarms, I feel recharged.”

Related: Taye Diggs says The real Full Monty The cast “began opening up during rehearsals” about the impact cancer had on them

Van Der Beek is scheduled to appear later in December The real Full Montya two-hour special in which a group of male celebrities strip down to raise awareness for prostate, testicular and colon cancer testing and research.

In addition to the star, the special will also feature fellow actor Taye Diggs, Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones and a longtime star Dancing with the stars Judge Bruno Tonioli.

The event is inspired by the 1997 Oscar-nominated film The full MontyAnthony Anderson serves as executive producer.

“Embarrassingly, I thought I was just doing Anthony Anderson a favor and supporting cancer. “But once we got there and really started talking about these topics, everyone opened up and we got to know each other on a different level.” Diggs recently told PEOPLE about the special.

The real Full Monty Premiere is scheduled for December 9th.