Stars from Rumer Willis to Chad Michael Murray have shared a GoFundMe to support James Van Der Beek’s family as they struggle with the “financial burden” of his battle with cancer. The actor passed away on February 11th.
Actor James Van Der Beek dies at age 48 after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer
The actor, known for his roles in “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues,” was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023.
After news of James Van Der Beek’s death became public, his friends rallied to support his grieving family, who had been with him through his two-and-a-half year battle with cancer.
“My friends created this link to support me and my children during this time,” the late actor’s wife Kimberly Van Der Beek wrote on her Instagram Story on February 11, shortly after announcing her 48-year-old husband’s death on social media. She added, “I express my feelings of gratitude and heartbreak.”
The GoFundMe, organized by a friend named Jason and verified by USA TODAY, raised more than $800,000 from at least 12,000 donations in less than six hours, with goalposts moving throughout the day to reflect higher goal amounts. It has a goal of $1 million by 8 p.m. ET.
“After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026, leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and six wonderful children,” the description reads. “During his illness, the family did everything possible to support James and provide his care, and as well as facing emotional hardship, they also faced significant financial strain.”
The fundraiser also said: “James’ medical bills and long battle with cancer have left the family short on funds. The family has remained at home and is working hard to ensure their children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time.” The donation “will cover essential living expenses, pay bills and support children’s education.”
James Van Der Beek’s friends in and out of Hollywood have shared a GoFundMe and are encouraging their followers to lend a helping hand to his family.
Actress Patricia Arquette commented under the Instagram post announcing Van Der Beek’s death: “I love you. James was one of a kind. He was the best. People can support me by giving me money.” “To support you during this time, please search Support for the Family of James Van Der Beek.”
“Congratulations to his family. He was a blessing to us,” Chad Michael Murray wrote on his Instagram Story with a link to the fundraiser. Rumer Willis took a similar action, calling to action: “If you can donate, please send what you can to help our friends.”
Busy Philipps gave a shout-out to GoFundMe for her “Dawson’s Creek” co-star in a touching Instagram post, which she linked to on her Instagram Story.
The “Don’t Trust the B in Apartment 23” actor revealed in an interview with People magazine in the November 2024 issue that he was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August 2023. But he overcame it and continued to work in Hollywood, with recent credits including Tubi’s “Sidelined” film, Prime Video’s comedy “Overcompensating” and The CW’s “Walker.”
Van der Beek leaves behind his wife of more than 15 years, Kimberly, and their six children, Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13 years old. Annabelle, 12 years old. Emilia, 9 years old. Gwendolyn, 7 years old. And Jeremiah, 4.
