It’s been more than two decades since “Dawson Grows” bid farewell to television, but its hero, James Van Der BeekHe is inseparable from the character that made him famous: Dawson Leery. Now, he’s 48 and faces a challenge … The most difficult moments of your lifeThe actor decided to part with part of his personal collection associated with the legendary series. The reason is as emotional as it is painful: Financing your cancer treatment Colitis, a disease diagnosed at stage III in November 2024.
“I’ve been saving these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all the unexpected turns life has thrown at me lately, it’s clearly time,” the actor exclusively admitted to People magazine.
An auction that impresses its fans
These items will be part of the Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, which will be held from From 5 to 7 Decemberwhich will allow fans to obtain unique pieces from the “Dawson Grows” universe. Among them, the necklace that Dawson gave to Joey Potter in the prom episode stands out, and its value is estimated at between $26,400 and $52,800The brown flannel shirt worn by the actor in the pilot episode has an estimated price of approx $4000.
“Although I get nostalgic when parting with these items, I’m thrilled to be able to offer them through the Propstore auction and share them with those who have supported my work over the years,” he explained to the same publication.
A year full of cancer
The actor has been transparent about the impact the disease has had on his life. He revealed in 2024 that he had already resorted to selling signed football shirts to cover part of his medical expenses. He wrote on his Instagram account, where nearly two million people follow him: “100% of my net profits It will go to families Those recovering from the financial burden of cancer (including me).”
Van der Beek did not hide the severity of his situation, but rather took the opportunity to thank him for the love he received. “It’s been a tough year… and I’m grateful for everything. “For the tremendous change cancer has made in my life, and for the gift of knowing how I feel when I have the unconditional support of my friends, in ways I never could have imagined if I had not had this disease,” he wrote in the same letter.
His notable absence from the “Dawson Grows” reunion.
Last September, translator It had to be cancelled Due to his participation, he participated in a reunion of the cast of the film “Dawson Grows” in New York Sensitive health condition. Despite this, he wanted to be present in some way, and he suddenly appeared in a video clip, where he appeared clearly thinner, which worried his followers.
The event, which raised money for Fuck Cancer, was attended by his wife and six children who came on his behalf. On stage, actor Lin-Manuel Miranda read the script instead, a gesture that moved the audience.
“I just want to get on stage and thank everyone in the theater for being here tonight. From the cast to the crew, to everyone who is doing something and has been so generous, and especially to each and every one of you: you are the best fans in the world,” Van Der Beek said in his recorded message.
Despite the difficulties, the actor maintains the spirit that distinguished him from the beginning: hope. His decision to auction off the most important memorabilia of his career is not just reflective Economic needAnd also a means Close the circle with fans The one he grew up with, and now accompanies him in a very different but equally inspiring fight.
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