James Van Der Beek'S Family Hits $1 Million Milestone In Heartfelt Gofundme Campaign

A Stunning Wave of Support

The family of James Van Der Beek, beloved for his role as Dawson Leery on "Dawson's Creek," has been embraced by a tidal wave of compassion and generosity. After the actor's untimely passing, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to alleviate the burden of medical bills and essential living costs. In a mere 24 hours, the campaign soared past $1 million, far exceeding its initial target.

Friends of Van Der Beek set the campaign in motion on Wednesday, and by Thursday morning, donations had already surpassed $1.32 million. This remarkable outpouring of support highlights the deep affection fans and friends had for the actor, who succumbed to colorectal cancer at 48.

"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 fundraising page reads.

Celebrity Contributions and Family Struggles

James leaves behind his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, who have been navigating the emotional and financial hurdles of his illness. The campaign's initial goal of $250,000 was quickly raised to $1.5 million, thanks to a flood of donations from over 26,000 generous individuals, including some big names in Hollywood.

Actress Zoe Saldaña committed to a recurring monthly donation of $2,500, while other celebrities like Derek Hough, Ricki Lake, Lydia Hearst, and Kaley Cuoco also contributed. The Van Der Beek family had been financially stretched thin by the exorbitant costs of cancer treatment, making this support crucial for their future.

Kimberly Van Der Beek took to Instagram to share the GoFundMe link, expressing her gratitude and heartbreak, "My friends created this link to support me and our children during this time. With gratitude and a broken heart."

Honoring James's Legacy

James was first diagnosed with cancer in November 2024, revealing he'd known about it since August 2023. To help cover treatment costs, he auctioned off cherished memorabilia from his career, including iconic items from "Dawson's Creek" and "Varsity Blues."

In announcing his passing, Kimberly spoke of his final days with love and reverence: "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."

The GoFundMe campaign serves as a testament to the strength of community and the enduring impact of Van Der Beek's legacy, both on and off the screen. This collective effort not only provides financial relief but also ensures his memory is cherished and his family's needs are met.