Actor Mehcad Brooks has spoken out strongly in defense of the GoFundMe campaign created for James Van Der Beek’s family following the late actor’s death. The fundraiser, which has raised $2.6 million, was launched to support Van Der Beek’s wife and children after his battle with cancer left them “out of funds.”
Backlash Over the Campaign
While the campaign drew widespread support, some critics questioned why Van Der Beek’s family needed financial help. One user on Threads wrote: “This doesn’t sit right with me. Thousands of people face this exact situation every day. They don’t get $2.5 million. He had to have had life insurance… and residual checks.”
The criticism intensified after reports surfaced that Van Der Beek had purchased a $4.8 million ranch in Texas earlier this year.
Brooks Responds
Brooks, known for True Blood and Mortal Kombat, fired back at detractors in a passionate post. “I am one of the Van Der Beek’s closest friends and the headlines are fake AF. You have no idea wtf you’re talking about,” he wrote. “It’s ok to stfu when you can’t know what the f— you’re talking about. It’s ok not to seek attention off of other people’s suffering or the generosity in response to it.”
He emphasized that Van Der Beek had touched lives for decades and that the generosity shown was a reflection of his impact.
Family’s Gratitude
Friends of the actor, who organized the fundraiser, issued a statement thanking donors: “In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light. It reminds us that love is real, that community is strong, and that James’s spirit continues to bring people together.”
Van Der Beek’s brother also expressed gratitude, calling the outpouring of support “heartbreakingly beautiful.”
Ranch Purchase Clarified
Amid questions about the Texas ranch, Van Der Beek’s representative clarified that friends helped secure the down payment through a trust, allowing the family to shift from renting to owning.
Brooks’s Tribute
Brooks has continued to honor his late friend on social media, sharing photos and heartfelt words. “It cannot be understated how much impact this man had on the world, particularly those who knew him closely. He was and always will be an angel among us,” Brooks wrote.
He revealed he was with Van Der Beek during his final days, describing his passing as a “transition handled like a true King.”
