James Van Der Beek, known for his role in 'Varsity Blues', is battling stage III colorectal cancer. Despite the challenges, he remains optimistic and is using his platform to support families affected by cancer through a charitable merchandise initiative.

  • James Van Der Beek's has a cancer diagnosis
  • He is fundraising through 'Varsity Blues' merchandise
  • THIS was his latest show of support

A good cause

In a heartfelt revelation, James Van Der Beek, famous for his role in the 1999 film 'Varsity Blues', has shared his battle with stage III colorectal cancer. Diagnosed in 2023, Van Der Beek has been open about his journey, expressing a cautiously optimistic outlook.

"I’m very cautiously optimistic. I’m in a place of healing, my energy levels are great," he told People in a November interview. His health battle has also become a platform for raising awareness about the financial burdens cancer imposes on families.

"Merch drop! Excited to celebrate the 25th anniversary of #VarsityBlues with a limited edition #4 Moxon jersey — each one personally autographed by me," Van Der Beek, 47, recently wrote via Instagram. "Grab yours now at the link in my bio or head over to JVDB.Shop."

Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer in 2023, publicly revealing his health battle earlier this month.

"I’m very cautiously optimistic. I’m in a place of healing, my energy levels are great," he told 'People' in a November interview. "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. I have a lot to live for."

To support families, including his own, affected by cancer, Van Der Beek launched a special merchandise initiative.

He further explained, "100% of my net proceeds will go to families recovering from the financial burden of cancer (including my own )." This initiative not only commemorates his iconic role but also provides much-needed support to those facing similar challenges.

"If you’ve heard about it, I’ve probably touched on it," he told the outlet. "This has been a crash course in the mastery of mind, body, and spirit. I thought, ‘This is either going to take me out of the body, or it’s going to teach me how to truly live in it.’"

Van Der Beek added, "I’d always associated cancer with age and with unhealthy, sedentary lifestyles. But I was in amazing cardiovascular shape. I tried to eat healthy — or as far as I knew it at the time."

Throughout this challenging period, Van Der Beek has leaned heavily on his family, including his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six children.

"I’m more grateful than ever to my superhuman wife who has shown up on levels I never knew possible,” he wrote via Instagram on Thursday, November 28. "Who has shown me what unconditional love is and the magic that comes from that. I am in awe of you, @vanderkimberly."

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He expressed profound gratitude, saying, "I’m more grateful than ever to my superhuman wife who has shown up on levels I never knew possible." His wife's unwavering support and the love from their children have been a source of strength and inspiration. Van Der Beek's journey highlights the importance of family and community support in overcoming life's hurdles.