Fans Donate $1 Million to Support James Van Der Beek’s Wife and 6 Kids

The community is rallying around the family of James Van Der Beek following his death at age 48.

The beloved actor, best known for his roles on “Dawson’s Creek” and in “Varsity Blues,” died on Feb. 11 after a battle with colorectal cancer. In the hours after the heartbreaking news broke, friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children.

By Feb. 12, the fundraiser had already reached $1 million — far surpassing its original $250,000 goal. As donations continued pouring in, the target was raised to $1.3 million.

“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future,” the GoFundMe message reads. “The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.”

The statement explains that the money will help the family stay in their home, cover essential bills and living expenses, and ensure the children can continue their education during this difficult transition. “Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives,” the page adds.

Van Der Beek and Kimberly shared six children together: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 4.

Over the past year, Van Der Beek had been open about the financial strain caused by his cancer treatment. After being diagnosed in 2023, he revealed his illness publicly the following year and began taking steps to help cover mounting medical costs.

One of those efforts included working with Propstore to auction off memorabilia from his time on the hit WB series “Dawson’s Creek.” The collection featured props, set pieces and wardrobe items from the show — treasured pieces that had been in storage for years.

“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them,” he told People at the time. “With all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now.”

Though he admitted parting with the items stirred nostalgia, he said it felt meaningful to share them with fans who had supported him throughout his career.

He later expanded his efforts by selling jerseys from “Varsity Blues,” with proceeds going toward his own medical bills as well as helping other families facing similar cancer battles.

Now, in the wake of his passing, fans and friends are giving back in a big way — honoring his legacy not only as an actor, but as a devoted husband and father.