The community has come together in a big way following the death of James Van Der Beek.
The actor died at 48 on Feb. 11, following a battle with colorectal cancer. Shortly after the news broke, his friends started a GoFundMe account, asking for help for his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six children.
On Feb. 12, the account reached $1 million. The goal was originally set at $250,000 but increased throughout the day on Wednesday to $1.3 million.
“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,” the message on the GoFundMe reads. “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,” the page continued. “Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them.”
Van Der Beek shared six kids with his wife: Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, and Gwendolyn, 7, and Jeremiah, 4.
Last year, the actor began working with Propstore to sell memorabilia from “Dawson’s Creek,” including props, set pieces and wardrobe from his time on The WB hit, in order to help with the costs of cancer treatment. He was diagnosed in 2023 and shared the news the following year.
“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,” he told People at the time. “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.”
He later also began selling jerseys from “Varsity Blues,” for both his own medical costs and to help other “families walking the same path.”
