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Back in August 2023, James Van Der Beek received a diagnosis of colorectal cancer, which he publicly disclosed last November.
The well-known actor, recognized for his roles in “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues,” is now auctioning off beloved memorabilia from his career in an effort to cover medical expenses as he contends with stage 3 colorectal cancer. This auction is being conducted through a London-based auction house.
At 48, Van Der Beek has partnered with Propstore to sell props and costumes from his notable television and film appearances. According to People magazine, all the proceeds from this auction will be directed toward his medical bills. The items will be available at Propstore’s Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, scheduled from December 5 to December 7.
“I’ve held onto these treasures for years, waiting for the perfect moment to do something meaningful with them,” Van Der Beek shared with People. “Given the recent unexpected challenges life has thrown my way, it’s evident that now is the right time.”
Among the auctioned items is the necklace that Van Der Beek’s character, Dawson, gave to Joey—portrayed by Katie Holmes—for prom, which is anticipated to fetch between $26,400 and $52,800, as reported by Deadline. Additionally, his outfit from the 1998 pilot episode of “Dawson’s Creek” is expected to garner nearly $4,000.
From “Varsity Blues,” the 1999 football film, Van Der Beek is selling his West Canaan Coyotes hat and black and white Reebok cleats. The estimated value of all items ranges from $1,320 to $52,800.
Van Der Beek was diagnosed with cancer in August 2023 and revealed his diagnosis publicly last November.
“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,” Van Der Beek told People at the time.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. According to the Centers for Disease Control, colorectal cancer has the second-highest treatment cost of any form of cancer.
Van Der Beek shares six children ages 3 to 14 with his wife Kimberly.
“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,” Van Der Beek told People.
In September, the “Dawson’s Creek” cast reunited in New York City for a charity fundraising event to support Van Der Beek and the F Cancer nonprofit, which included a live reading of the pilot episode. Van Der Beek was forced to miss the live event because of his health and Lin-Manuel Miranda stepped in to read the role of Dawson.
Online bids can be placed now, and in-person bidding will take place in London on Dec. 6, with global online bidding available through Dec. 7.