James Van Der Beek’s Friends Start Gofundme After ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Star’s Death

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After the unexpected news of James Van Der Beek’s passing yesterday, February 11th, his friends have started a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe. Fans and colleagues have been sharing heartfelt tributes to the actor, who is best known for playing Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek from 1998 to 2003. In addition to Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek also appeared in popular sitcoms like Don’t Trust the B in Apartment 23 and How I Met Your Mother.

The actor revealed in November 2024 that he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in August 2023. To help cover his medical expenses, he had been selling items from his time on Dawson’s Creek. Now, his close friends have started a GoFundMe campaign to support his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, according to Variety. Kimberly Van Der Beek shared the campaign link on Instagram, adding a message to accompany it.

My friends have set up this link to help my children and me through a difficult time. I’m incredibly thankful, but also heartbroken.

Many of James Van Der Beek’s former Dawson’s Creek colleagues, along with other celebrities like Katie Holmes, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Chad Michael Murray, have been posting tributes to him online. While his passing is deeply felt by many, his wife and children are experiencing the greatest loss.

“Kimberly and the Children Are Facing an Uncertain Future”


The WB

This GoFundMe campaign explains how much of an impact Van Der Beek had on both the acting world and the people who loved him. After receiving his diagnosis, he began selling items from his career, including memorabilia from Dawson’s Creek, to help cover his medical expenses. He continued to do this until his passing, and in November 2025, his Varsity Blues jersey was put up for auction. Although he never revealed the full amount of his medical bills, they were clearly substantial. Van Der Beek’s friends have detailed how the money raised will be used.

I’m so moved by the chance to help Kimberly and her family get back on their feet. Any contribution, big or small, will directly help them with everyday costs like bills and, most importantly, give her children the education they deserve. Knowing we can offer a little hope and security during this tough time means the world. Thank you for considering helping them rebuild their lives – it truly makes a difference.

From the moment he learned he had cancer, Van Der Beek faced the illness with determination. For the past two years, he worked tirelessly to fund his medical treatment and provide for his family. It’s incredibly sad that his wife, Kimberly, and their six children have lost him. Fortunately, Van Der Beek’s friends have come together to support them during this difficult time. As of 9:45 am ET on February 12th, they’ve raised an impressive $1,361,297 – 91% of their $1.5 million goal.

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2026-02-12 17:50