A GoFundMe campaign for James Van Der Beek’s family has raised more than $1 million in less than 24 hours, following the actor’s death at age 48. The Dawson’s Creek star passed away after a two-and-a-half-year battle with colorectal cancer, leaving behind his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children.
Friends of the actor launched the fundraiser to help the family cope with financial strain caused by medical bills and living expenses. The campaign message explained that the costs of James’s care had left the family “out of funds” and struggling to maintain stability. Donations will go toward essential expenses, including bills and education costs for the children.
By Thursday morning, nearly 20,000 people had contributed, bringing the total to $1,070,436. Among the top donors were actress Zoe Saldaña, who pledged $2,500 monthly, and producer Julie Plec, who donated $5,000. Kimberly expressed gratitude on Instagram, writing: “My friends created this link to support me and our children during this time. With gratitude and a broken heart.”
Fans and Colleagues Pay Tribute
Many donors shared heartfelt messages, thanking Van Der Beek for his impact on pop culture. One supporter wrote: “‘Dawson’s Creek’ and James as an actor were such a big part of my teen years. He made an impact on so many people — his legacy lives on.” Van Der Beek rose to fame in the late 1990s as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek. He also starred in Varsity Blues (1999), Texas Rangers (2001), The Rules of Attraction (2002), and more recently appeared in Overcompensating. His final role will be seen in the upcoming Legally Blonde prequel series, Elle.
Healthcare Debate
The fundraiser has also reignited debate about the U.S. healthcare system. Many fans criticized the fact that a well-known actor’s family was left financially devastated by medical costs. One user on X wrote: “James Van Der Beek’s wife has a GoFundMe to try and ensure her children don’t lose their home. This is the reality of America’s for-profit healthcare system.”
Another added: “What a horrendous state the U.S. healthcare system is in. Potentially bankrupting people going through the toughest fight.”
Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) weighed in, calling the situation a “moral crime.” He argued for Medicare for All, stating: “Tragically, even a beloved actor’s fight left his young family drowning in medical debt. We refuse to guarantee healthcare to every American from the day they are born. It’s time to put human dignity ahead of human greed.” The campaign highlights both the enduring legacy of Van Der Beek’s career and the ongoing challenges families face when confronted with serious illness in the U.S.
