(WJW) — Following a stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis last year, one-time teen heartthrob James Van Der Beek has announced he is auctioning off some of his memorabilia to help lessen the burden of his skyrocketing healthcare costs.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now,” 48 year-old Van Der Beek told People.
The event, taking place through Propstore’s Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction Dec. 5-7, includes things like the prom necklace Van Der Beek’s character Dawson gave Joey (Katie Holmes) on an episode of teen soap “Dawson’s Creek,” in addition to cleats Van Der Beek wore in the 1999 sports movie “Varsity Blues.”
Each item is expected to garner thousands of dollars.
James Van Der Beek at Prime Video’s “Overcompensating” premiere held at the Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images) 
James Van Der Beek arrives at the 71st Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP) 
Business Wire via AP
“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,” the father of six told People.
Van Der Beek has continued acting and making public appearances since announcing his cancer diagnosis.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S., with early screening and treatments leading to fewer people dying from the cancer.