"Varsity Blues" Star James Van Der Beek Battles Cancer, Remains Resilient

As of September 2025, the cast of the 1999 film "Varsity Blues" has gone on to pursue a wide range of careers, both in and out of the spotlight. James Van Der Beek, who played the brainy backup quarterback Jonathan "Mox" Moxon, has continued his acting career, appearing in shows like "Dawson's Creek" and "Pose." However, in late 2024, Van Der Beek revealed to PEOPLE that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at the age of 47.

Despite the challenging diagnosis, Van Der Beek has remained resilient. In July 2025, he told Today that he was "feeling great" and described his cancer journey as a "process" that will likely continue for the rest of his life. Tragically, another "Varsity Blues" star, Paul Walker, who played the injured star quarterback Lance Harbor, passed away in a car accident in 2013 at the age of 40.

The rest of the "Varsity Blues" cast has also experienced a range of successes and challenges. Some, like Jon Voight, who portrayed the ruthless football coach Bud Kilmer, have continued to build impressive acting careers, while others, like Ron Lester, who played the lovable offensive lineman Billy Bob, have faced health issues and passed away.