Sad reason James Van Der Beek sold Dawson’s Creek memorabilia before death
James Van Der Beek died earlier this week, aged 48 - just over two years since he announced his bowel cancer diagnosis
Last November, just three months prior to his passing, actor James Van Der Beek began flogging precious items he'd kept from the set of Dawson's Creek.
Exactly two years earlier, the much-loved actor had shared the tragic news that he'd been diagnosed with bowel cancer.
He told PEOPLE in 2023 that a routine screening had revealed the existence of a tumour, which quickly developed into stage three colorectal cancer.
Van Der Beek had wanted to make the announcement in a bowel cancer awareness-raising campaign with the news outlet, but was pushed into speaking out sooner by another tabloid whose editors had caught wind of his condition.
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"But we roll with it," he added at the time. "Taking each surprise as a signpost, pointing us toward a greater destiny than we would have discovered without divine intervention.
"Please know that my family and I deeply appreciate all the love and support."
Sadly, the vicious strain of cancer would eventually steal Van Der Beek's life on Wednesday (11 February).
His death was announced by his wife Kimberly, who wrote in a statement that he'd died 'peacefully', surrounded by his loved ones.
"He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace," she shared. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come.
"For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."
In what would become one of the star's final updates, Van Der Beek shared in November 2025 that he'd be placing a number of treasured items from his time on Dawson's Creek - the 90s teen-drama that made him famous - up for sale to pay for expensive cancer treatment.
He told PEOPLE at the time that the memorabilia would be flogged by Propstore in their Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, which was later held on the 5-7th December weekend.
One item that contributed to paying for Van Der Beek's treatment was a necklace his character, Dawson, gifted to Joey (played by Katie Holmes) for prom, which was initially estimated to be worth between $26,400 and $52,800.
Clothing he'd worn for the pilot episode - which was predicted to go for $4,000 - was also listed.
Several items associated with Van Der Beek's stint in 1999 sport hit Varsity Blues were also up for sale, including cleats and a West Canaan Coyotes Hat.
The Hollywood favourite told press at the time: "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.
"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."
Also prior to his death, Van Der Beek's family set up a fundraiser to help support Kimberly, and their six children - daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah.
Following the announcement of the star's passing, Kimberly re-shared the page online, emphasising that any further money raised would go towards paying off her husband's extended medical treatment.
"My friends created this link to support me and our children during this time. With gratitude and a broken heart," she explained.
The GoFundMe page itself bears the description: "James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him.
"After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026 leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children.
"Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care."
The statement continued: "In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.
"They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time.
"The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead."
Right now, the fundraiser sits at $2,102,432.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.
Topics: Celebrity, US News, Health, Bowel cancer, Cancer
Rhianna Benson