James Van Der Beek addresses fans at show’s reunion after shock withdrawal

James Van Der Beek had taken to his social media to inform his supporters that he would not be able to reprise his role as Dawson Leery a short while before the Broadway reunion, but he did make a unique contribution at the charity event.

The 48-year-old was not physically present at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City for the event, but made his contribution via a pre-recorded message which was displayed to the crowd.

"I have been looking forward to this night for months and months ever since my angel Michelle Williams said she was putting it together, I can't believe I'm not there. I can't believe I don't get to see my cast mates, my beautiful cast in person,” he began.

James then went on to thank the rest of the cast and everyone present at the theatre that night, as well as anyone who was in any way shape or form involved in the project.

"Thank you for coming. It's just absolutely humbling just how much you did for this night, and I just want to say thank you. Thank you to every single person here, and, obviously, on Dawson's Creek, I had no understudy, but this is Broadway, and I needed one.” the Angus star stated.

James also re-introduced his understudy once again, just like he had done in his social media post making the devastating announcement, presenting Lin-Manuel Miranda as his replacement.

How many kids did James Van Der Beek have?

James and his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek have six children together, and even though he did not attend the vent, his wife and children did.
RELATED: Heartbroken James Van Der Beek forced to skip beloved reunion: Here's why