James Van Der Beek auctions ‘Dawson’s Creek’ items to cover cancer treatment costs

James Van Der Beek is auctioning cherished ‘Dawson’s Creek’ memorabilia. The 48-year-old actor plans to auction off iconic show items. All proceeds help cover his Stage 3 colorectal cancer treatment costs. The auction runs from December 5-7, 2025 through Propstore.

How It All Started

Van Der Beek revealed his cancer diagnosis last November 2024 in an Instagram post. He initially noticed changes in his bowel movements during summer 2023. At first, he attributed these signs to coffee consumption. However, when symptoms persisted, he sought medical attention immediately. Doctors diagnosed him with Stage 3 colorectal cancer—a serious condition requiring intensive treatment.

“I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family. There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”

Now, more than a year into his treatment journey, Van Der Beek faces mounting medical bills. Like 42% of cancer patients, he’s dealing with substantial financial strain. The average cancer treatment costs approximately $150,000. Colorectal cancer treatment ranks second for costs among all cancers nationally.

A Treasure Trove of Nostalgia

The upcoming auction features incredible pieces from Van Der Beek’s storied career. Propstore, a specialized auction house for entertainment memorabilia, is handling the entire event. Several pieces are being released to the public for the first time ever.

From ‘Dawson’s Creek’, fans can bid on the iconic necklace Dawson gave Joey for prom. This precious item carries enormous sentimental value for longtime viewers. The estimated range reaches $26,400 to $52,800. Van Der Beek also includes his character’s signature flannel shirt worn throughout many classic episodes.

Item	Show	Estimated Value
Dawson’s necklace for Joey	Dawson’s Creek	$26,400-$52,800
Flannel shirt	Dawson’s Creek	Multiple hundreds
Pilot episode outfit	Dawson’s Creek	Up to $4,000
Varsity Blues cleats	Varsity Blues	$1,320+
West Canaan Coyotes Hat	Varsity Blues	$1,320+

Van Der Beek also includes memorabilia from his legendary role in ‘Varsity Blues’ (1999). Bidders can snag his film-worn cleats and the West Canaan Coyotes Hat. All these treasures span his most career-defining moments. Bedroom decorations and other iconic set pieces complete the collection.

Why This Auction Matters Now

Van Der Beek’s quote captures his reasoning perfectly: “I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time. With all the recent unexpected twists, it’s clear that the time is now.”

The actor has been balancing treatment with his acting career. He missed a major ‘Dawson’s Creek’ reunion event in September 2025 due to stomach viruses. Tony Award-winning Lin-Manuel Miranda stepped in to read Dawson’s part during a charity table read. However, Van Der Beek surprised the audience with an emotional video message.

Despite his health challenges, Van Der Beek continues prioritizing his family. He and his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek are parents to six children. His family has provided tremendous support throughout his journey. The medical expenses, however, keep mounting as treatments continue.

How to Bid and When

The Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction begins December 5, 2025. Live in-room bidding takes place in London on December 6. Global bidding remains open through December 7, 2025, making it accessible to fans worldwide.

Interested collectors can register now through Propstore‘s official website. The auction house specializes in authenticated entertainment memorabilia from film, television, and music. All items come with certificates of authenticity and detailed provenance documentation.

Van Der Beek said: “While I have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these items, it feels good to offer them through Propstore. I want to share them with those who have supported my work over the years.”

What’s Next for the Star?

Three key questions emerge about Van Der Beek’s future path. First, how will the auction proceeds impact his treatment options? Second, will his health improve enough to resume full-time acting? Third, how will his family adapt as he continues battling this disease publicly while raising six children?

His story represents a broader healthcare crisis in America. Many celebrities face financial strain from cancer treatment despite their wealth. Van Der Beek’s willingness to auction personal items highlights the very real burden that medical expenses place on families.

The entertainment community has rallied around him. Castmates from ‘Dawson’s Creek’ offered public support. His former costar Oliver Hudson called him an “inspiration” during his cancer journey. This collective support demonstrates the lasting bonds formed on beloved television shows.

Van Der Beek remains hopeful and determined. He continues acting when possible and prioritizes quality time with loved ones. The auction represents both a practical solution and an emotional goodbye to cherished memories. For fans, it’s a rare opportunity to own authentic pieces of television history while supporting an actor they’ve admired for decades.

Sources

• People Magazine – exclusive interview and auction announcement
• ABC News Good Morning America – memorabilia details and health update
• Propstore Auctions – official auction house and item catalog