GoFundMe campaign raises $2 million for Van Der Beek family
James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife and six children. Photo: Instagram
Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek’s family has received more than $US2 million ($A2.8 million) through a GoFundMe page, with Hollywood heavyweights among the generous donors.
The actor died on Wednesday (US time) aged 48, after suffering from bowel cancer.
He left behind his wife, Kimberly, and six children – Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.
The GoFundMe page, organised by his friends, explained that the family had endured both emotional and financial challenges during Van Der Beek’s illness, and now faced an uncertain future.
“James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,” it says.
“After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026, leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children. Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future.
“The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time.”
It added that the support of friends, family and the wider community would make “a world of difference” for the family.
“Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives.”
By mid afternoon on Friday (AEDT), the GoFundMe page had surpassed its target and raised more than $US2.06 million ($A2.91 million) from around 37,000 donations.
Among those who have reportedly made generous donations are Hollywoods names such as director Steven Spielberg, actor Zoe Saldaña, and talkshow host Ricki Lake.
The Van Der Beek family in a Halloween photo shared on social media. Photo: Instagram
In an update, the campaign’s organisers said the support had been a light during a time of “deep grief”.
“It reminds us that love is real, that community is strong, and that James’s spirit continues to bring people together.”
Van Der Beek’s acting career included roles in the movie Varsity Blues and on TV in CSI: Cyber as FBI Special Agent Elijah Mundo. However, he became a household name as teenager Dawson Leery in the series Dawson’s Creek, which ran from 1998 to 2003 and followed a group of high school friends as they learned about falling in love, creating real friendships and finding their footing in life.
Van Der Beek revealed in 2024 he was being treated for colorectal cancer.
The actor made a surprise video appearance in September at a Dawson’s Creek reunion charity event in New York City after previously dropping out due to illness.
Kimberly Van Der Beek announced his death via a social media post, saying he had “passed peacefully”.
“He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” she wrote.
Many of his Van Der Beek’s acting colleagues have paid tribute to him in the days since, including Dawson’s Creek co-star Katie Holmes, who shared a hand-written letter on Instagram.
“James, Thank you,” Holmes wrote. “To share space with your imagination is sacred – breathing the same air in the land of make believe and trusting that each other’s hearts are safe in their expression …
“These are some of the memories, along with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs – adventures of a unique youth …”
“Bravery. Compassion. Selflessness. Strength. An appreciation for life and the action taken to live life with the integrity that life is art-creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children – the journey of a hero.
“I mourn this loss with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it.”
–with AAP
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