Additional Coverage:
- A GoFundMe was set up for James Van Der Beek’s family — ‘the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds’ (businessinsider.com)
“Dawson’s Creek” Star James Van Der Beek Dies at 48; Family Launches GoFundMe for Support
James Van Der Beek, the actor widely known for his leading role in the hit series “Dawson’s Creek,” has passed away at the age of 48 after a three-year battle with colorectal cancer. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, announced his peaceful passing on Wednesday and has since backed a GoFundMe campaign to support their six children and help cover the extensive medical bills incurred during his treatment.
The GoFundMe initiative, which was shared on both James and Kimberly’s Instagram stories, quickly garnered significant attention, raising over $598,000 towards its $1 million goal by Wednesday evening. The campaign’s description highlights the financial strain the family faces, stating, “The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.”
The funds raised are intended to ensure the family can maintain their home, support the children’s education, and cover essential living expenses as they navigate this incredibly difficult time. Kimberly Van Der Beek expressed her gratitude and heartbreak on Instagram, writing, “My friends created this link to support me and our children during this time. With gratitude and a broken heart.”
A spokesperson for GoFundMe confirmed that the company is working with the organizer to ensure the funds are securely directed to Kimberly Van Der Beek.
Two months prior to his passing, Van Der Beek made a public appearance on NBC, where he expressed a sense of optimism regarding his health. He told interviewer Craig Melvin, “I feel much, much better than I did a couple months ago.
It’s been a longer journey than I ever thought it would be. It’s required more of me – more patience, more discipline, more strength than I knew I had.
I knew I was strong – I didn’t know I was this strong.”
In December, the actor also auctioned off personal memorabilia from “Dawson’s Creek” to assist his family and manage the accumulating medical expenses related to his cancer treatment.