Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues star James Van Der Beek lost his battle with cancer on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026. Tributes honoring the late actor have been pouring in from fans, co-stars, and actors alike. They feel horrible to hear of this loss, but to go along with this, he has left behind a wife and six children. Cancer left them with nearly nothing, but a GoFundMe has been a saving grace and has more than exceeded its goals. Keep reading for all of the financial details.
James Van Der Beek’s GoFundMe Surpasses $1 Million Goal
When James Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly, decided to have a large family, they never could have anticipated what was ahead. In 2023, James was sadly diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer. Yet, he did not reveal what was going on to the public for a year. This was a shock to everyone who knew and loved him, especially his fans who adored him as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek. Moreover, he had wowed audiences as a celebrity in 2019 on Season 28 of Dancing With the Stars, frequently remaining in the public eye.
Before he passed, it was clear that he was running out of funds. Cancer had robbed him of his health, and his family was struggling. James and those who were aware of his plight attempted to raise what they could, but sadly, he passed away. His family has been left in financial hardship, so a GoFundMe was set up. The initial goal was around $500K, but that was soon surpassed. It was raised, but the donations flooded in. The goal was set at $1.3 million at the end of the day on February 11th. By morning on February 12th, it had reached $1,366,956.
The more money that is raised, the higher the amount is set to. It is now at $1.5 million and will likely keep going higher. James Van Der Beek’s wife and six children have seen so much love and support in their darkest hour. Many of the biggest donations are remaining anonymous. However, Guardant Health donated $25K while businessman, talent manager, and investor Guy Oseary donated $10K. Additionally, the Marla Maples Foundation chipped in $5K, and it will just keep growing.
The Love Is So Strong
James Van Der Beek passed peacefully, but this is heartbreaking. The Cheshire, Connecticut, native was just 48 when he died. Moreover, it is hard to truly rest knowing your family may be left with such a burden. Fortunately, so many loved James that there is nothing to worry about any longer. The comments on the GoFundMe to honor James and his work were extremely beautiful. It proves that he may be gone, but never forgotten:
- Thank you James for always being our real life Dawson. Thanks for always being the good guy ❤️. Rest in peace and lots of hugs for ur family.
- Rest in Peace. Your portrayal of heartbreak in the midst of a truth filled pursuit in life spoke to me in so many ways growing up. Thank you for loving your family, the best legacy to leave them.
- Rest in peace, dear James. Thank you for the 90s and the memories. Love and condolences to all who knew you. Joey
Hopefully, Kimberly and her six children are comforted by the love that has been sent in. James Van Der Beek defined a generation and has left so much behind. May he now officially rest in peace.
Amanda has been a professional freelance writer for over a decade, holding both a BA and an MA. Her passions include animals, iced coffee, gnomes, summer, music, and ‘Vanderpump Rules’.
