Actor James Van Der Beek is opening up a deeply personal chapter of his life by parting with the props and memorabilia that helped define his Hollywood profession.
The “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues” star, who was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer last yr, is auctioning a few of his most cherished keepsakes to assist fund his ongoing treatment and recovery.
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A Bittersweet Auction For A Beloved Star
Fans of “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues” will soon have a rare opportunity to own pieces of television and film history.
James Van Der Beek has teamed up with Propstore for its Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, happening December 5–7, 2025.
The actor is releasing wardrobe items, props, and set pieces from his personal collection, many being made available to the general public for the very first time.
Every dollar from the sale will go on to Van Der Beek to assist with the financial costs of his cancer battle.
Amongst probably the most coveted items is the necklace Dawson gifted Joey for prom, estimated to sell for between $26,400 and $52,800.
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Also included are Dawson’s flannel shirt, featured in multiple episodes, and the outfit worn by the character within the show’s pilot episode, which could fetch as much as $4,000.
For movie fans, the auction includes memorabilia from Varsity Blues, corresponding to Van Der Beek’s game-worn cleats and the enduring West Canaan Coyotes hat.
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James Van Der Beek Reflects On Letting Go
For Van Der Beek, the choice to part with these treasured mementos was each emotional and empowering.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the appropriate time to do something with them, and with the entire recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now,” he shared in a chat with PEOPLE.
The actor admitted that nostalgia tugged at him as he prepared for the sale but said the method feels meaningful.
“While I even have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these things, it feels good to have the ability to supply them through Propstore’s auction to share with those that have supported my work over time,” he added.
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Fans can register to bid online or in person, with the live auction happening in London on December 6 and global bidding continuing through December 7.
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A Personal Battle Met With Strength
James Van Der Beek revealed his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis last yr, a deeply private struggle he has faced with grace and determination.
“I’ve been privately coping with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he previously told PEOPLE. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”
Since sharing the news, he’s received an outpouring of affection from fans who’ve followed his journey from his early Dawson’s Creek days to his more moderen projects.
Despite the challenges, Van Der Beek continues specializing in what truly matters most: his health and his family.
James Van Der Beek’s Absence Leaves An Emotional Void
Fans were thrilled to see familiar faces back together again. Nonetheless, Van Der Beek’s absence forged a heavy shadow.
The 48-year-old star had long been looking forward to attending the reunion profit. For him, it wasn’t just an event, but a long-awaited likelihood to reconnect with individuals who shaped his early profession.
“This reunion profit was something that James was waiting for because it offered him a change of pace, and to have the ability to see so many those who he loved was going to be so special,” a source near him told the Every day Mail. “The undeniable fact that he was unable to do it was a significant disappointment.”
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In his absence, his wife Kimberly and their six children attended on his behalf. The evening became much more emotional when two of his daughters performed Paula Cole’s “I Don’t Wanna Wait,” the show’s signature theme song.
“It was a moment where his illness won briefly, but to see how the event made [fans, as well as] his family feel and to see his daughters sing was such an incredible moment,” the source added. “It gave him a number of happiness.”
James Van Der Beek’s Message Sparks Hope And Concern
Though he couldn’t attend in person, Van Der Beek appeared through a prerecorded message that played through the reunion.
His words were heartfelt and crammed with gratitude but viewers couldn’t help noticing how frail he appeared. His slimmer frame and mild delivery stirred concern across social media.
Still, those near him said the message was an indication of his strength.
“He’s taking all of it step-by-step, and though he looks frail, if he wasn’t doing higher than expected, you wouldn’t have seen his family there,” a source shared.
Despite his battle, optimism stays. “This journey goes to take some time, but he’s being positive and there may be optimism that he’ll find yourself actually being OK,” the insider added.
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For fans, his courage and perseverance function a poignant reminder that even while fighting for his health, James Van Der Beek continues to encourage with the identical quiet strength that made him unforgettable on screen.