James Van Der Beek Auctions Memorabilia Amid Cancer Battle
A beloved late-’90s TV star is parting with some of his most iconic on-screen items, marking a deeply personal chapter in a life reshaped by unexpected change. James Van Der Beek is partnering with Propstore to auction wardrobe pieces, props, and set items from his decades-long career.
The Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction will run from December 5–7, 2025. Van Der Beek, 48, revealed he was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at age 46. The auction will help cover mounting treatment costs.
Standout Items Up for Bid
Among the highlights:
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The necklace gifted to Joey in Dawson’s Creek, expected to fetch $26,400–$52,800.
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The original pilot outfit, estimated at nearly $4,000.
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Cleats and the West Canaan Coyotes hat from Varsity Blues, on public sale for the first time.
Van Der Beek told People: “With all the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented, it’s clear the time is now.”
James Van Der Beek in a dark suit and silver tie stands on a red carpet with his hands in his pockets. He faces the camera with a composed expression as attendees move around behind him. Bright sunlight and a busy crowd set the scene at the outdoor event.
Life on the Texas Ranch
Van Der Beek now lives on a quiet Texas ranch with his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children. He faces his diagnosis with honesty, courage, and grace—a reflection of the grounded life he has built beyond Hollywood.
When he went public in 2024, he revealed that he had no family history of cancer and had prioritized health through fitness and nutrition. Initially private, opening up became a turning point, easing his personal burden while raising awareness of colorectal cancer.
Confronting Mortality
In March 2025, Van Der Beek shared a spiritual reflection on his diagnosis. He said confronting mortality stripped away all titles—husband, father, provider—and left only one truth: the feeling of being worthy of God’s love.
“If I am just a too-skinny, weak guy alone in an apartment with cancer, what am I? I meditated, and the answer came: I am worthy of God’s love simply because I exist. And if I’m worthy of God’s love, shouldn’t I also be worthy of my own? And the same is true for you,” he explained.
James Van Der Beek steps onto the yellow carpet in a dusty-rose suit that mirrors his effortless confidence and wry charm. His neatly trimmed mustache and relaxed stance give him a cool, vintage edge against the bright backdrop. At the “Overcompensating” premiere, he radiates easy sophistication with a hint of playful swagger.
Family Comes First
Despite health challenges, Van Der Beek never strayed from his children. In October 2025, he posted a heartfelt birthday tribute to his youngest son:
“I’m sorry there have been spells where I couldn’t be the father I wanted to be… where I was too weak to pick you up. But watching you reveal yourself has been one of the greatest joys of my life.”
Even when illness kept him from events—like a Dawson’s Creek reunion in September 2025—he maintained his humor, joking that Lin-Manuel Miranda would fill in for him.
“Everyone please enjoy all the love in that room. Shine some on my family. I will be beaming and receiving from afar in a bed in Austin. And thank you @lin_manuel. You were a hero to my kids before… now you’re a demigod 😇,” he added.
Letting Go, Moving Forward
Selling his memorabilia isn’t about loss. It’s about moving forward—making space for family, faith, and a future built on gratitude.
With each item, fans receive more than a piece of his legacy—they glimpse the grace, vulnerability, and strength that have carried him through the toughest chapter of his life.
James Van Der Beek’s story shows a star who has traded Hollywood spotlight for resilience, love, and perspective—and fans now have a chance to own a piece of that remarkable journey.
