The outpouring of love has been swift, emotional, and overwhelming. Within hours of its launch, the James Van Der Beek GoFundMe campaign crossed the $1 million mark, as fans and friends rallied around the late actor’s wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children following his heartbreaking death.
James Van Der Beek died on February 11 at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer — a diagnosis he had publicly shared in 2024. By the next day, a fundraiser created in support of his family had already exceeded its original $250,000 goal, eventually climbing past $1 million as donations poured in from across the world.
Community Rallies Around the Van Der Beek Family
James Van Der Beek’s Friends Launch GoFundMe After His Death, Say Cancer Battle ‘Left Family Out of Funds’: ‘They’re Working Hard to Stay in Their Home’ https://t.co/5vzSiCrzAd
— Variety (@Variety) February 11, 2026
The message on the James Van Der Beek GoFundMe page painted a sobering picture of the family’s reality.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future,” the statement read. “The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.”
According to the page, the funds raised will help cover essential living expenses, outstanding medical bills, and the children’s education — all while helping the family remain in their home during an incredibly destabilizing period.
What began as a modest goal quickly grew as the scale of public support became clear. Within hours, the fundraising target was raised multiple times, eventually reaching $1.3 million.
It was a powerful reminder of just how deeply Van Der Beek’s life and work resonated.
A Father of Six, A Fighter Until the End
James shared six children with Kimberly: Olivia (15), Joshua (13), Annabel (12), Emilia (9), Gwendolyn (7), and Jeremiah (4).
In the months leading up to his passing, he remained focused on both his health and his family, even as medical costs mounted.
In 2023, he was diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer but initially kept the news private. When he publicly disclosed his diagnosis in 2024, he explained that he had already begun treatment and was choosing to prioritize time with his loved ones.
Those close to him often described him as reflective and grounded during this period — a man determined to meet his reality with courage.
Selling Memorabilia to Fund Treatment
Before the James Van Der Beek GoFundMe campaign, the actor had already taken steps to help offset treatment expenses.
In late 2024 and 2025, he partnered with Propstore to auction memorabilia from his career, including iconic pieces from Dawson’s Creek and jerseys from Varsity Blues. He shared that, at the time, while parting with the items, carrying them felt meaningful to pass them on to fans who had supported him for decades.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years… and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented, it’s clear that the time is now,” he said.
Even in the face of mounting health challenges, he found ways to give back — pledging that some proceeds would also help other families navigating cancer diagnoses.
The Legacy of Dawson Leery
James Van Der Beek, best known for his role as Dawson Leery in ‘Dawson’s Creek’, has passed away at 48. 💙 pic.twitter.com/q1trgCNPVX
— IMDb (@IMDb) February 11, 2026
For millions, James Van Der Beek will forever be Dawson Leery — the sensitive, ambitious teen at the heart of Dawson’s Creek.
When the series premiered in 1998, it quickly became a defining show of its generation, reshaping the teen drama genre on television. Over six seasons and 128 episodes, Van Der Beek became a familiar face in households around the world.
But beyond the fame, he was known for something quieter: sincerity.
In later years, he often reflected on how suddenly his life changed after landing the role. He spoke openly about early fame, personal growth, and eventually reaching a sense of completeness about leaving Dawson behind.
That emotional honesty became a hallmark of his public persona.
A Wave of Tributes
Since news of his passing broke, tributes have flooded social media. Co-stars, industry peers, and longtime fans have shared stories of his kindness, vulnerability, and the emotional impact of his work.
His family confirmed his passing in a statement shared via Instagram, saying he met his final days “with courage, faith, and grace.”
As the James Van Der Beek GoFundMe continues to receive support, it stands as more than a fundraising effort. It is a reflection of gratitude — from audiences who grew up with him, laughed with him, cried with him, and saw parts of themselves in his characters.
James Van Der Beek leaves behind a wife, six children, and a body of work that shaped a generation.
And in this moment of loss, the community he once entertained is now holding his family up in return.
Featured image: Cindy Ord/Getty Images
James Van Der Beek, “Dawson’s Creek” Star, Dies At 48 After Cancer Battle
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