The GoFundMe for James Van Der Beek’s widow Kimberly and their six children have reached a great milestone.
As of Wednesday night, February 11, the GoFundMe campaign has passed the $1 million mark and increased its goal to $1.3 million.
James and Kimberly, who were married 16 years ago, shared children Olivia (born 2010) Joshua (born 2012), Annabel (born 2014), Emilia (born 2016), Gwendolyn (born 2018) and Jeremiah (born 2021) and the money raised will go towards supporting the family.
The family faced financial strain as James struggled stage 3 colorectal cancer. His death was announced earlier Wednesday via his Instagram page. He was 48 years old.
Famous friends of James Van Der Beek and his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek have offered their financial support following his tragic death at the age of 48. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” Kimberly, 44, wrote via Instagram on Wednesday (February 11).
After his death the GoFundMe was set up up with the description explaining that Kimberly and the kids were “bottomless”.
“James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,” the GoFundMe page read. “After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026, leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and six wonderful children. During his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges, but also significant financial strain as they did everything they could to support and care for James.”
The page noted that James’ family now “faces an uncertain future” following his heartbreaking loss.
“James’ medical care costs and prolonged battle with cancer have left the family without funds,” the fundraiser description continued. “They are working hard to stay in their homes and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time. The support of friends, family and the wider community will make all the difference as they navigate the road.”
Several celebrities have already contributed to the fundraising efforts, including Derek Hough, Lake Ricki i Phillips busy
Kimberly and James Van Der Beek.
(Photo by Tasia Wells/Getty Images for The Trevor Project)After sharing his diagnosis publicly in November 2024, James tried several avenues raise the necessary fundss in his fight against the debilitating disease.
James sold some of his personal memorabilia Varsity Blues i Dawson’s Creek to help offset the cost of cancer treatment.
his Dawson’s Creek to cost Michelle Williams hosted an all-star cast meeting, which included Joshua Jackson i Katie Holmes – at Broadway’s famous Richard Rodgers Theater in September 2025 to raise money for James.
The cast of Dawson’s Creek shared their public support for James Van Der Beek’s cancer battle before his death. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” wrote James’ wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, via Instagram in February 2026. “There is so much (…)
While James was forced to pull out of the event at the last minute due to a stomach virus, the actor made a cameo via a video message where he thanked fans and friends for their support during the difficult time.
The death of James he announced on Wednesday via his Instagram account.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” read a statement shared via his Instagram. “There is so much to share about his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. We now ask for peaceful privacy as we mourn our beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
The Travis County Coroner’s Office confirmed James was pronounced dead at 6:44 a.m. Wednesday. A medical professional called his office.