James Van Der Beek sells ‘Dawson’s Creek’ items to pay for cancer treatment

James Van Der Beek Auctions Hollywood Memorabilia for Cancer Treatment

James Van Der Beek is offering fans a unique opportunity to own a piece of his career in Hollywood. The actor is auctioning off rare props, clothing, and set memorabilia from his extensive body of work, with all proceeds dedicated to funding cancer treatment.

The 48-year-old has teamed up with a prop store for the upcoming Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, scheduled for December 5-7, 2025.

Van Der Beek, known for his roles in “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues,” publicly shared his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis last year.

“I’ve been keeping these treasures for years, just waiting for the right moment to do something with them,” he told a magazine. “And given the unexpected twists life has taken, it seems like now is the right time.”

He expressed some nostalgia about parting with these items but also emphasized the satisfaction of sharing them with those who have supported his work. “It’s good to offer these pieces through this auction,” he noted.

Among the auction items is the iconic necklace that Dawson, his character, gifted to Joey, played by Katie Holmes, which is expected to fetch between $26,400 and $52,800. Fans will also find other notable memorabilia, such as the flannel shirt he wore as Dawson, estimated at about $1,300, and even the complete outfit from the pilot episode, projected to sell for nearly $4,000. Additionally, memorabilia from “Varsity Blues,” including football cleats and a team hat, will also be available.

The auction presents a mix of nostalgia and opportunity for fans as part of a larger initiative to raise funds for Van Der Beek’s medical costs, following his cancer diagnosis revealed in November 2024.

“There’s hope, and I feel optimistic,” he stated, committed to balancing his health and family life while continuing his work in the industry. Van Der Beek, who is a father of six with his wife Kimberly, has transitioned through different genres in his acting career, from teen idol to comedy roles.