GoFundMe for James Van Der Beek a widow Kimberly and their six children hit the milestone.
As of Wednesday evening, February 11, the GoFundMe campaign has passed the $1 million mark and has raised its goal to $1.3 million.
James and Kimberly, who were married for 16 years, share children Olivia (born 2010) Joshua (born 2012), Annabel (born 2014), Emilia (born 2016), Gwendolyn (born 2018) and Jeremiah (born 2021) and the money raised will go towards supporting the family.
The family faced financial hardship as James battled stage 3 colorectal cancer. His death was announced early Wednesday on his Instagram page. He was 48 years old.
After her death, a GoFundMe was set up with a description explaining that Kimberly and the children were “out of money.”
“James Van Der Beek was a loving husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,” the GoFundMe page reads. “After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026 leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six beautiful children. Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also great financial challenges as they did everything they could to support James and care for him.”
The page noted that James’ family now “faces an uncertain future” after their tragic loss.
“James’ health care expenses and extended battle with cancer have left the family with no money,” the collector’s description continued. “They are working hard to stay in their homes and ensure children can continue their education and maintain stability during this incredibly difficult time. The support of friends, family and the community at large will make a huge difference as they navigate the road ahead.”
Several celebrities have contributed to the fundraising efforts, including Derek Hough, Ricki Lake again Phillips is busy.
Kimberly and James Van Der Beek.
(Photo by Tasia Wells/Getty Images for The Trevor Project)After sharing his diagnosis publicly in November 2024, James tried several ways to raise much-needed funds to fight this debilitating disease.
James sold some of his personal memorabilia from The Varsity Blues again Dawson’s Creek to help reduce the cost of cancer treatment.
His own Dawson’s Creek the costar Michelle Williams organized a reunion of the star-studded cast – incl Joshua Jackson again Katie Holmes – at Broadway’s famous Richard Rodgers Theater in September 2025 to raise money for James.
The cast of Dawson’s Creek showed their support to the community for James Van Der Beek’s battle with cancer before his death. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” James’ wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, wrote on Instagram in February 2026. “So much […]
When James was forced to pull out of the event at the last minute due to a stomach bug, the actor made a cameo with a video message in which he thanked fans and friends for their support during the difficult time.
James’ death was announced on his Instagram account on Wednesday.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,” a statement shared on his Instagram. “There is much we can discuss about his wishes, love for humanity and the sanctity of time. Those days will come. For now we ask that we be alone and in peace as we mourn our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
The Travis County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed that James was pronounced dead at 6:44 a.m. Wednesday. A medical technician made a call to their office.
