(Exclusive) James Van Der Beek, 47, Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer: ‘There’s Reason for Optimism, and I’m Feeling Good’…see more

“I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” the star, 47, tells PEOPLE exclusively.

“There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good,” Van Der Beek adds. Despite the diagnosis, Van Der Beek has actively been working as he navigates his care.

He recently appeared on an episode of Walker and he is next set to star in Sidelined: The QB and Me, a Tubi original film out Nov. 29.

“#Egypt… With all my vocabulary, ‘Wow’ is what fell out of my mouth most of the time. We were gifted a magical experience, one I’m still processing – and might be 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 and time zone crossing and early-morning alarms, I feel recharged.”