James Van Der Beek’s Classic Sports Movie Is a Streaming Hit After Actor’s Death 

James Van Der Beek’s 1999 sports drama Varsity Blues is drawing renewed attention following the actor’s tragic death. The 1999 football drama has entered the Top 10 on Paramount+ in the United States just over 27 years after its theatrical release.

Varsity Blues becomes a streaming success on Paramount+ 

Varsity Blues has recently become a streaming hit on Paramount+. According to FlixPatrol, the 1999 sports drama entered the platform’s Top 10 chart this week, ranking No. 5 in the United States on February 15, 2026. The rise in viewership follows the death of lead actor James Van Der Beek, who died on February 11 at age 48 after a battle with stage three colorectal cancer.

Directed by Brian Robbins and written by W. Peter Iliff, Varsity Blues was released in theaters on January 15, 1999. Set in the football-driven town of West Canaan, Texas, the film follows the Coyotes as their season is thrown into uncertainty after star quarterback Lance Harbor, played by Paul Walker, suffers a serious injury. 

The responsibility then falls to second-string quarterback Jonathan “Mox” Moxon, played by James Van Der Beek, who must guide the team along with the strict leadership of head coach Bud Kilmer, played by Jon Voight. As the new team leader, Mox faces pressure from his coach, teammates, and the local community, while also navigating his own future beyond football.

The movie’s cast also includes Ron Lester as Billy Bob, Richard Lineback as Joe Harbor, and Scott Caan as Charlie Tweeder, among others.

Upon its release, the film received mixed reviews from critics. It currently holds a 46 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 57 reviews. Audience reception has been stronger, with a 76 percent score on the Popcornmeter. According to Box Office Mojo, the film earned approximately $54 million worldwide.

Source: Comingsoon.net