James Van Der Beek’s fundraiser reaches $2 million after family forced to set it up for wife and kids after death

A fundraiser set up for the wife and six children of the late James Van Der Beek has reached $2 million.

The tragic news broke on Wednesday (11 February) that the Dawson's Creek star has died, following a two-and-a-half-year-long battle with colorectal cancer.

Van Der Beek, who is best known for playing Dawson Leery on the TV show between 1998 and 2003, was diagnosed in late 2023 following a screening which revealed the existence of a tumour, but only revealed the news in November 2024.

At the same time, he heartbreakingly confirmed that the disease had developed into stage three colorectal cancer, which meant it had spread to nearby lymph nodes.

A fundraiser for the family of James Van Der Beek has reached over $2 million (Instagram/vanderjames)

Announcing his death, his family wrote in a statement shared to social media: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.

"There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."

Van Der Beek leaves behind his wife Kimberley, and their six children, Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.

Shortly after sharing the news of his passing with the world, Kimberly shared a link to a GoFundMe to help with expenses relating to the star's extended medical treatment.

She wrote: "My friends created this link to support me and our children during this time. With gratitude and a broken heart."

And the page's description reads: "James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026 leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children.

"Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care."

The money will cover essential living expenses, pay bills and support the children’s education (Instagram/vanderjames)

It continued: "In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. 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.

"The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead."

The money raised will help cover 'essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education' and stressed that 'every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives'.

As we say, as the time of writing, the fundraiser has now reached a whopping $2 million, which is more than the set target of $1.5 million, and it's still climbing.

A new updated message which was added to the page by the organiser yesterday, reads: "Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for showing up for James and his beautiful family. Your kindness has meant more than we can put into words.

"In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light. It reminds us that love is real, that community is strong, and that James’s spirit continues to bring people together."

You can donate here.