Remembering James Van Der Beek, the “Varsity Blues” Hero 27 Years Later

The news of James Van Der Beek’s passing at age 48 has left a huge void in Hollywood and in the hearts of those who grew up watching him define a generation of teen drama. While he will always be Dawson Leery to some, for many of us, he remains Jonathan “Mox” Moxon, the rebellious, reluctant quarterback from the 1999 cult classic “Varsity Blues.”

“Varsity Blues” – High School Charm (and Pressures)

Following his private battle with colorectal cancer, fans are looking for ways to pay tribute to his legacy. There is perhaps no better way to honor his work than by revisiting the film that cemented his status as a leading man. It was a movie that captured the pressure of high school sports and the desire to break free from expectation – themes Van Der Beek portrayed with effortless charm.

James Van Der Beek: Remembering the Legacy of Mox

Rewatching the film now hits a little differently. Van Der Beek played Mox with a unique blend of cynicism and heart. He was the backup quarterback who didn’t want the glory, reading Vonnegut on the sidelines while the rest of the town worshipped the game. His standoff with the tyrannical Coach Kilmer (played by Jon Voight) remains one of the most satisfying story climaxes in sports movie history.

When he uttered the line, “I don’t want your life,” he wasn’t just talking to his father; he was speaking for every teenager trying to carve out their own identity. It is a performance that proved he was far more than just a TV heartthrob.

The Tragic Loss of the “Varsity Blues” Cast

Heartbreakingly, watching “Varsity Blues” today is a reminder of how much talent we have lost from this specific cast far too soon. Van Der Beek is the third member of the core Coyotes team to pass away, a fact that makes the film’s themes of youth and invincibility feel devastatingly fragile.

Paul Walker, who played the injured golden boy Lance Harbor, died in a tragic car accident in November 2013 at the age of 40. Walker’s character was the soul of the team, the one who lost his dream but found his footing as a coach. Van Der Beek was one of the first to publicly mourn Walker, sharing memories of their time together on the set.

In 2016, the cast lost Ron Lester, who played the lovable, boisterous Billy Bob. Lester died at age 45 due to liver and kidney failure. His performance was the emotional anchor of the movie, providing both the biggest laughs and the most tear-jerking moments. With the loss of their on-screen leader, Mox, the film stands as a time capsule of three incredible talents who left us prematurely.

How to Watch “Varsity Blues” Online Right Now

If you are looking to take a trip back to West Canaan, Texas, to relive the highs and lows of the Coyotes, you have several options to stream the film immediately. For those looking to watch without a subscription fee, Pluto TV is currently streaming “Varsity Blues” for free. It is the most accessible way to jump right back into the action.

If you prefer a premium, ad-free experience, the film is available to stream on Paramount+. For viewers who don’t have a subscription to either of those platforms, you can rent or purchase the digital version of the movie through major retailers including Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, and Google Play.

Supporting the Van Der Beek Family

Van Der Beek’s death is a profound loss for his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. He had been diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer back in August 2023 but the family chose to keep the diagnosis private until late 2024.

After his passing, a GoFundMe was established to support Kimberly and their children as they navigate this impossible time. The fundraiser has seen much support from fans and fellow celebrities, a testament to the kindness and grace the for which the actor was known. 

While Hollywood mourns a star, his family mourns a father and husband. Revisiting his work in “Varsity Blues” is a small way for fans to keep his memory alive. Fans can remember him young, vibrant, and leading the charge on Friday night under the lights.