Overview

• The one-night reading of the pilot took place September 22 at the Richard Rodgers Theatre with Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson and most of the original cast.
• James Van Der Beek did not attend in person due to an acute stomach illness as he continues treatment for stage 3 colorectal cancer disclosed in 2024.
• Van Der Beek appeared in a prerecorded message thanking supporters and introduced Lin-Manuel Miranda, who read the role of Dawson onstage.
• His wife, Kimberly, and their children were present and joined the cast onstage to perform the series theme, “I Don’t Want to Wait.”
• The event raised funds for F Cancer and prompted fresh concern from fans after images and the actor’s video message circulated.