DAWSON’s Creek star James Van Der Beek has revealed that he had a vasectomy.

The actor previously announced that he was diagnosed with stage three colorectal cancer.

James, 47, first rose to fame in the 90s on the teen drama Dawson’s Creek where he played the titular role of Dawson Leery.

He shares six children with his wife Kimberly Brook after the duo tied the knot in 2010.

They are parents to Olivia, 14, Joshua, 12, Annabel, 10, Emilia, eight, Gwen, six and Jeremiah, three.

The actor has now explained that he had a vasectomy after welcoming his six kids.

In an interview with People, he confirmed: “We love having kids, but we didn’t really plan it out.

“It just happened. We had one planned child. One! Out of six.

“One was 100% on purpose. The one thing we really sucked at was not getting pregnant.”

He continued: “But thank God, honestly, because it’s such a struggle for people, and we really don’t take it for granted.

“I joke, and I laugh, but like, yeah, we really just kind of got lucky that way.

“I figured the only way we’re going to stop this is if we have some medical intervention.”

The actor also revealed the news of his diagnosis in a statement to the outlet, where he said: “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.

“There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”

He is being supported by his family as his wife posted a tweet tribute to her partner.

Colorectal cancer develops in the tissues of the colon or rectum, which are both part of the large intestine and the digestive system.