James Van Der Beek’s family forced to set up fundraiser to support wife and kids after his death
A fundraiser for the wife and children of James Van Der Beek has been set up, after the actor's tragic death aged 48.
The Dawsons Creek star's 'peaceful' passing was announced yesterday, (11 February) following a two-year battle with bowel cancer.
An official statement written by his family and shared to his Instagram account read: "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."
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Van Der Beek had been diagnosed with bowel cancer in late 2023 following a routine screening which revealed the existence of a tumour.
The father-of-six made his diagnosis public knowledge in November 2024 and confirmed that the disease had since developed into stage three colorectal cancer.
Now, following his heartbreaking passing, his family have set up a fundraiser to help support his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.
After announcing Van Der Beek’s death on her own Instagram account, Kimberly published 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."
At the time of writing, the fundraiser sits at $1,198,119 and almost 23,000 people have donated.
The description of the page 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 statement 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."
It concluded that people's generosity 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'.
You can donate here.
In November, Van Der Beek had to auction off memorabilia and outfits from Dawson's Creek in order raise money to fund his cancer treatment.
He starred as Dawson Leery for the entire duration of the show, which ran for six seasons from 1998 to 2003.
The actor told PEOPLE Magazine at the time: "I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it's clear that the time is now.
"While I have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these items, it feels good to be able to offer them through Propstore's auction to share with those who have supported my work over the years."
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.
Topics: Bowel cancer, GoFundMe, Cancer, Celebrity, News, US News, Health
Madison Burgess