As James Van Der Beek fans rally around the former teen heartthrob amid his health struggles, the actor is parting with some rare memorabilia to assist with treatment costs.
Following news of his Stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis last November, Van Der Beek is teaming up with Propstore to auction off some props and wardrobe from his time on The WB’s Dawson’s Creek and his 1999 movie Varsity Blues, with all proceeds going to his medical fees.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them,” he told People. “And with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now.”
Van Der Beek added, “While I have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these items, it feels good to be able to offer them through Propstore’s auction to share with those who have supported my work over the years.”
As part of its Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction from Dec. 5 to 7, Propstore is auctioning off his outfit from the 1998 Dawson’s Creek pilot, which is expected to fetch nearly $4,000, as well as the necklace Dawson (Van Der Beek) gave Joey (Katie Holmes) for prom, estimated to go for $26,400 to $52,800. The auction also includes his Varsity Blues character’s West Canaan Coyotes hat and a pair of cleats worn for the football movie.
Michelle Williams, James Van Der Beek, Joshua Jackson and Katie Holmes in ‘Dawson’s Creek’ (1998-2003) (Columbia TriStar Television/Courtesy Everett Collection)
Last November, Van Der Beek revealed his diagnosis in an interview with People. “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,” he said. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”
Van Der Beek previously sold some limited-edition autographed Varsity Blues merch in December, and his Dawson’s Creek co-stars reunited for a table read of the pilot, which benefitted F Cancer.
