A GoFundMe campaign for the family of actor James Van Der Beek has raised over $1 million following his death on February 11, 2026. This significant amount, which is still increasing, will provide support for his wife Kimberly and their six children. The campaign’s target has now been raised to $1.3 million to assist the family during this challenging time.
Van Der Beek, who was married to Kimberly for 16 years, was a father to Olivia (born in 2010), Joshua (born in 2012), Annabel (born in 2014), Emilia (born in 2016), Gwendolyn (born in 2018), and Jeremiah (born in 2021). His passing followed a long battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, which placed financial strain on the family as they sought to cover medical expenses.
The news of his death was shared through his Instagram account, where a statement read, “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.” The Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Van Der Beek was pronounced dead at 6:44 a.m. on that Wednesday.
Community Support Grows
In response to the tragedy, the GoFundMe campaign was initiated with the goal of alleviating the financial difficulties the family now faces. The description noted that Kimberly and the children were “out of funds” after a prolonged and expensive fight against cancer.
“James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,” the page stated. “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.”
Several celebrities have contributed to the fundraiser, including Derek Hough, Ricki Lake, and Busy Phillips. The support from the wider community has been significant, as friends and fans rally to help the family navigate this heartbreaking loss.
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Before his passing, Van Der Beek had been open about his health struggles, sharing his diagnosis publicly in November 2024. To help with the financial burden, he sold personal memorabilia from his acclaimed roles in Varsity Blues and Dawson’s Creek. His Dawson’s Creek co-star Michelle Williams organized a star-studded cast reunion in September 2025, featuring other cast members like Joshua Jackson and Katie Holmes, to raise funds for his treatment.
Although Van Der Beek was unable to attend the event due to illness, he expressed gratitude via a video message, thanking fans and friends for their unwavering support.
As the Van Der Beek family faces an uncertain future, the outpouring of love and financial assistance continues to be a source of strength. The GoFundMe campaign remains a testament to the impact he had on those around him and the community’s commitment to supporting his family during this difficult time.
