The family of actor James Van Der Beek has received an overwhelming wave of support following his heartbreaking death. Within hours of a fundraising page going live, more than $1 million was raised to help his wife and six children.
The response shows just how deeply the actor was loved — not only by fans of Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues, but also by friends, colleagues, and the wider community.
James Van Der Beek Dies Aged 48 After Cancer Battle
James Van Der Beek died on February 11 at the age of 48 after battling colorectal cancer.
The actor was diagnosed in 2023 and made his illness public the following year. Throughout his fight, he remained open about his health struggles while continuing to work and support his family.
His passing has left behind:
His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek
Their six children:
Olivia, 15
Joshua, 13
Annabel, 12
Emilia, 9
Gwendolyn, 7
Jeremiah, 4
His death has deeply affected fans around the world, many of whom grew up watching him on television.
GoFundMe Campaign Raises $1 Million in a Single Day
Shortly after news of his death was confirmed, close friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his family.
Originally, the fundraising goal was set at $250,000. However, donations poured in rapidly, and within hours the campaign reached $1 million on February 12. Due to the overwhelming response, the goal was later increased to $1.3 million.
The message on the GoFundMe page explains the family’s situation:
“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.”
The page also added:
“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.”
How the Donations Will Help the Family
According to the fundraising page, the money raised will be used for:
Covering essential living expenses
Paying household bills
Supporting the children’s education
Providing stability during a time of grief
The organisers emphasised that:
“Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives.”
The strong public response highlights the impact Van Der Beek had on so many lives.
Selling Memorabilia to Cover Cancer Treatment Costs
Before his death, James Van Der Beek had already taken steps to manage the financial burden of his cancer treatment.
Auctioning Dawson’s Creek Items
Last year, he partnered with Propstore to sell memorabilia from Dawson’s Creek, the popular WB drama that made him a household name.
Items included:
Original props
Set pieces
Wardrobe pieces from the show
Speaking to People magazine at the time, Van Der Beek said:
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now.”
He admitted it was emotional to part with the items but felt grateful to share them with fans who had supported him for years.
Helping Other Families Facing Cancer
In addition to selling Dawson’s Creek memorabilia, Van Der Beek also sold jerseys from the 1999 film Varsity Blues.
Importantly, the proceeds were not only meant to help cover his own medical expenses. He also wanted to support:
Other families dealing with cancer
Those “walking the same path,” as he described it
Even while battling a serious illness, he continued to think about others facing similar challenges.
A Community United in Grief
The rapid success of the GoFundMe campaign shows how deeply James Van Der Beek touched people’s lives.
For many fans, he will always be remembered as Dawson Leery, the emotional and thoughtful teenager from Dawson’s Creek. For others, he was the determined quarterback in Varsity Blues. But beyond his roles, friends describe him as a devoted husband and loving father.
Now, the community has come together to support the family he loved most.
Legacy of James Van Der Beek
James Van Der Beek leaves behind:
A successful acting career spanning decades
Memorable television and film roles
A strong and devoted family
A legacy of resilience and generosity
His story is not just one of fame, but of courage during illness and love for family.
Sources
GoFundMe campaign page for the Van Der Beek family
Interview with People magazine regarding the Propstore auction
Public statements released by family and representatives
For Health & Fitness Products, Click => http://tinyurl.com/5n872ptd