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By Jenni Fink and Jason Lemon
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A GoFundMe launched to support the family of late Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek has surpassed a major fundraising milestone, as his wife and six children face mounting financial strain following the actor’s death, announced on Wednesday.
The fundraiser, titled **“**Support for James Van Der Beek’s Family,” was created shortly after the actor died on February 11 at age 48. According to the campaign description, the costs of his medical care and prolonged cancer treatment left the family “out of funds,” putting their ability to remain in their home at risk.
The GoFundMe had passed the six‑figure mark hours after his death was announced, drawing widespread support from fans, fellow actors and members of the entertainment industry. More than $370,000 had been contributed as of publication, with a goal of raising at least $550,000.
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‘Working Hard to Stay in Their Home’
The fundraiser was organized by Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, who wrote that the family is facing an “uncertain future” after years of financial strain tied to the actor’s illness.
“The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds,” the GoFundMe states. “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."
Van Der Beek and his wife, who married in 2010, have six children. The fundraiser says donations will go toward essential living expenses, bills and educational costs for the children.
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Outpouring of Support After His Death
News of the GoFundMe spread quickly after Van Der Beek’s death was confirmed in a statement posted to his Instagram account.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” the family wrote. “He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace."
Tributes poured in from former co‑stars and friends, many of whom shared memories of the actor and praised his resilience during his battle with colorectal cancer.
Van Der Beek had previously spoken openly about the toll of cancer treatment, including how it affected his ability to work. In the months before his death, he auctioned off memorabilia from Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues to help offset medical expenses.
Final Instagram Message Focused on Family
Two weeks before his death, Van Der Beek shared what would become his final Instagram post—a heartfelt message honoring his daughter and father, who share a birthday.
In the post, he reflected on their shared “open, warm, loving, gentle heart,” writing, “You are marvels… and I’m so insanely grateful to have you in my life. The world is a better place because the two of you are in it."
The post underscored how deeply Van Der Beek centered his family during his final months, as he grappled with the physical and emotional toll of cancer treatment. A Halloween post from his wife, Kimberly, shows Van Der Beek and his entire family dressed up in costumes for the holiday.
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Cancer Battle and Legacy
Van Der Beek revealed in November 2024 that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, though he later disclosed the diagnosis initially came earlier and had been kept private. He continued working intermittently during treatment, while also speaking publicly about the emotional strain of illness and the fear of being unable to provide for his family.
In a video posted on his 48th birthday, Van Der Beek described the past year as the hardest of his life, reflecting on how cancer forced him to confront questions about identity, purpose and worth beyond his career.
The GoFundMe campaign notes that the support of fans and the broader community will play a critical role as his family works to rebuild after his death.
“Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives,” the fundraiser states.
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