Hollywood actor James Van Der Beek is turning to his most iconic role to raise money for a deeply personal cause: his fight against colorectal cancer.
The 47-year-old star, best known for playing Jonathan “Mox” Moxon in the 1999 teen football drama Varsity Blues, announced on Instagram that he is selling autographed replicas of his character’s jersey to help offset the financial strain of cancer treatments.
“#CancerIsExpensive,” Van Der Beek wrote in an emotional Instagram Story on Friday, accompanied by a red heart emoji.
The custom jerseys, emblazoned with the number 4 and “Moxon” on the back, are part of a special “merch drop” celebrating the 25th anniversary of Varsity Blues. But for Van Der Beek, the sale is more than just a nostalgic nod to the past — it’s a lifeline.
“A Financial Burden”
Last week, the Dawson’s Creek alum opened up for the first time about the financial toll cancer has taken on his family. “Excited to celebrate the 25th anniversary of #VarsityBlues with a limited edition #4 Moxon jersey—each one personally autographed by me,” he wrote in a heartfelt post on Nov. 22.
“100% of my net proceeds will go to families recovering from the financial burden of cancer (including my own 😇),” he added.
Van Der Beek, who shares six children with his wife, Kimberly, revealed earlier this month that he had kept his diagnosis private until a tabloid threatened to leak the news.
“I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he told People magazine. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”
Fighting with Gratitude
Despite the challenges, Van Der Beek has remained hopeful. In a recent interview, he described himself as “cautiously optimistic” and said his energy levels were “great.”
“I’m in a place of healing,” he shared, adding, “When I’ve been out of the woods completely for what feels like a responsible amount of time, I’ll circle back and let you know.”
On Thanksgiving, the actor took a moment to reflect on his journey, sharing a heartfelt message with his followers.
“For the giant life re-direct cancer has placed in my path. For the gift of knowing what it feels like to have friends come through on such a profound level, and in ways I never would have been able to ask for had I not been going through it,” he wrote alongside a family photo.
“I’m grateful for this new relationship I have to my body, and what I feed it. I’m grateful to each and every one of you who has reached out and sent good vibes and prayers. It all lands and makes a difference.”
A Legacy of Resilience
Van Der Beek rose to fame in the late 1990s as Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, but it was his portrayal of Mox, a reluctant high school football star navigating the pressures of small-town Texas, that cemented his place in pop culture.
Varsity Blues captured the angst and ambition of a generation, and Van Der Beek’s latest endeavor ties his legacy to a cause close to his heart.
Fans eager to support the actor can order their personalized jersey in time for Christmas. For Van Der Beek, each purchase is not just a reminder of past glory but a step forward in his ongoing fight.
As he told his followers, “Every bit of support counts. And together, we can make a difference.”
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.