James Van Der Beek revisits ‘Varsity Blues’ to help families with cancer treatment costs
3 min read
James Van Der Beek pictured on November 18, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. Photo by Andrew Toth/Getty Images.
James Van Der Beek, best known for his roles in Varsity Blues and Dawson’s Creek, has launched a campaign to support families struggling with the financial burdens of cancer treatment. This initiative follows his own revelation last month that he has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the actor shared how he is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Varsity Blues, the 1999 sports film in which he starred as quarterback Jonathan “Mox” Moxon. Van Der Beek, 47, announced that he is selling limited-edition, signed jerseys featuring the iconic No. 4 and Moxon’s name, with 100% of the net proceeds going to help families affected by cancer costs, including his own.
Van Der Beek’s Instagram post showed him proudly wearing a blue jersey and holding a football, as he expressed his excitement about marking a quarter-century since the film’s release. The jerseys, both autographed and unsigned, are available for purchase through Van Der Beek’s website. In his post, the actor emphasized his commitment to supporting cancer patients and families, many of whom face overwhelming financial struggles due to the high costs of cancer treatment.
The actor’s efforts come after he publicly shared his cancer diagnosis in October. Van Der Beek revealed that he had been privately undergoing treatment for colorectal cancer, thanking his family for their support during this challenging time. “I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he wrote. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.” Van Der Beek, who has six children with his wife, Kimberly, has expressed gratitude for the love and strength of his family, which has been crucial to his journey.
Varsity Blues, where Van Der Beek portrayed a backup quarterback who steps up to lead his team, has achieved cult status since its release. Alongside Van Der Beek, the film starred the late Paul Walker, Jon Voight, Ali Larter, and Amy Smart. The movie focused on the pressures of small-town football and the personal struggles of its characters, themes that resonated with many fans and contributed to the film’s lasting impact.
The actor’s campaign comes at a time when cancer treatment costs in the U.S. continue to place a heavy financial burden on patients and their families. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer during their lifetime. The financial toll of cancer care is substantial; a 2022 survey by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network found that over 50% of cancer patients and survivors reported incurring medical debt as a result of their treatment. For many, the high costs of cancer care can lead to financial ruin, adding another layer of stress to an already difficult battle.
Van Der Beek’s decision to sell merchandise from Varsity Blues to benefit cancer patients is a powerful example of how celebrities can use their platform for charitable causes. The actor’s initiative not only raises awareness of the financial struggles that cancer patients face, but it also offers fans a way to contribute to the cause. By combining his connection to Varsity Blues with his personal experience battling cancer, Van Der Beek is providing a meaningful opportunity for people to support a worthy cause while celebrating a beloved film.
Through his social media posts and his ongoing commitment to helping others, Van Der Beek is demonstrating resilience and compassion during a challenging chapter in his life. His efforts to aid families dealing with cancer treatment costs have garnered praise from fans and the public alike, showcasing the actor’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of those in need. As Van Der Beek continues his own fight against cancer, his campaign offers a reminder of the importance of community support and solidarity in times of hardship.
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