James Van Der Beek’s family is facing an uncertain future after the Dawson’s Creek star died at 48 following his battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer.
In the days after his passing, close friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, saying the prolonged medical fight had left the family financially drained. The fundraiser describes a household grappling not only with grief but with mounting bills after years of treatment.
Kimberly shared the campaign link on social media, thanking supporters “with gratitude and a heavy heart.” The GoFundMe page states that while James fought bravely through his illness, the cost of care placed a heavy strain on the family’s resources. It says donations will help cover basic living expenses, outstanding medical bills, and the children’s education as they attempt to maintain stability.
Van Der Beek and Kimberly were parents to six children ranging in age from 4 to 15. According to the campaign, preserving their home and ensuring the kids can continue their schooling are top priorities during this transition.
Van Der Beek publicly revealed in November 2024 that he had been privately battling colorectal cancer since August 2023. Over the past year, he sold memorabilia from Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues to help offset medical expenses, raising tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
His wife announced his death in a statement, saying he passed away peacefully and faced his final days with courage and grace. She asked for privacy as the family mourns.
Tributes from Hollywood quickly followed, with colleagues and friends remembering him as a devoted father and a generous spirit whose work defined an era of teen television.
Now, as the family begins to rebuild after an exhausting medical battle, supporters say the fundraiser is about more than money. It is about helping a grieving family find footing after losing their husband and father.
