SELLING MEMORIES TO MAKE MORE

JAMES van der Beek, beloved for his role as Dawson Leery in the iconic teen drama Dawson's Creek, is putting cherished memorabilia from the series up for auction. 

The actor’s decision comes as the 48-year-old father of six battles stage 3 colorectal cancer, an unexpected challenge he has faced bravely since his diagnosis last year.

Van Der Beek, whose career took flight with the show's debut in 1998, revealed that he has been contemplating this decision for a while, feeling the weight of nostalgia as he prepares to part with items that represent not just his career but also a significant chapter of his life. 

As he prepares to say goodbye to pieces from the show, he shared: “I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them.

“With all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented, it’s clear that the time is now.”

The auction, held at Propstore during their Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction from 5-7 December, offers fans the opportunity to own iconic pieces. 

Among the highlights are the outfit worn in the pilot episode, which could fetch around $4 000 (R68 000), and the necklace that Dawson gifted to his love interest, Joey Potter (portrayed by Katie Holmes), estimated to go for between $26 400 (R445 000) and $52 800 (R996 838).

As he auctions these sentiments from his past, Van Der Beek's goal remains clear: to raise funds for his ongoing cancer treatments as well as to support other families grappling with similar financial burdens. 

Last year, he also raised money through merchandise sales related to Varsity Blues, another beloved film, where he starred alongside the likes of Jon Voight and the late Fast and Furious star Paul Walker. 

He said at the time: “100 percent of my net proceeds will go to families recovering from the financial burden of cancer (including my own).”

Recently, Van Der Beek missed a long-awaited Dawson's Creek reunion due to illness, expressing his disappointment in a heartfelt video message to fans. 

After missing the opportunity to connect with his co-stars, he said: "I want to stand on that stage and thank every single person in the theatre for being here tonight.”

As he continues his journey through treatment, Van Der Beek remains optimistic, focusing on healthier lifestyle changes and the emotional support of his loved ones. 

He said: “It’s a process. It’ll probably be a process for the rest of my life.”