How did James Van Der Beek's cancer journey impact Montell Jordan? Singer opens up on late actor's influence

Montell Jordan reflected on how fellow entertainer James Van Der Beek's public cancer battle reshaped his own outlook on fighting the disease, saying both men's journeys serve different audiences while pushing the same hope for survival.

In a recent exclusive interview with Us Weekly, the singer opened up on how the late celebrity impacted him as he battled his own health crisis.

"I think that James has a very, very profound journey that he's been on. We are different, just from the standpoint of demographically, [storytelling] wise, as far as actors and musicians. I think it's almost like, in this great big chess board of life, you have different pieces that make different moves."

Montell Jordan shared his insights just hours before James Van Der Beek's death. The singer continued:

"I think the people that he's going to reach may not be the same people that I reach, but ultimately the goal is for cancer to be exposed and to be killed before it kills. Trying to kill a killer, and so from that standpoint, I'm appreciative of his story."

The R&B singer-turned-pastor was diagnosed with stage 1 prostate cancer in 2024. He underwent radical prostatectomy later that year and was declared cancer-free in early 2025.

Montell Jordan underwent over 30 rounds of proton therapy radiation treatment following the cancer recurrence, and by December 2025, he announced that he was cancer-free again.

Montell Jordan on why he waited before telling his children about his cancer diagnosis: "We didn't know how to really navigate that with them"

On Feb. 11, James Van Der Beek passed away after a year-long battle with colorectal cancer (CRC). He was 48.

Through his official Instagram page, his death was confirmed via a statement by his wife, Kimberly.

"Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."

Similar to the late actor, Montell Jordan also didn't publicly announce his cancer diagnosis right away, and didn't even let their children know for six months. Kristin, the artist's wife of over 30 years, shared with the outlet:

"We didn't say anything to them because we didn't know how to really navigate that with them without them feeling like they were also carrying cancer."

Trending

Later on, they were convinced by their eldest child to share the news with the public.

"I think it's critical, and that’s what we would find in our journey, is that it's critical to share because the importance of sharing is it allows the load to be disseminated and not be so weighty and heavy because other people are carrying other pieces for it."

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback