James Van Der Beek’s family is expressing heartfelt gratitude as an outpouring of public support follows the actor’s death at age 48 after a three-year battle with colorectal cancer.
James Van Der Beek died on Wednesday, February 11, according to a statement shared by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek. In an Instagram post, Kimberly Van Der Beek said her husband “passed away peacefully” and faced his final days “with courage, faith, and grace.”
The actor had been open in recent years about his diagnosis and treatment, speaking candidly about the challenges of living with cancer while raising a large family.
Shortly after news of his death was made public, friends of the family launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist Kimberly Van Der Beek and the couple’s six children: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 4.
The fundraiser states that the family is seeking help to cover essential living expenses, medical bills related to James Van Der Beek’s prolonged cancer treatment, and ongoing educational needs for the children.
Within 48 hours, the campaign had raised more than $2.2 million, reflecting widespread support from fans, colleagues and members of the entertainment community.
Organizers of the fundraiser released a public message thanking donors, saying the generosity shown has been “a light in the middle of deep grief” and a reminder of the strength of community during difficult times.
The statement also asked for privacy for Kimberly Van Der Beek and the children as they mourn.
It emphasized that the family is focusing on being together and navigating what organizers described as an uncertain future following the financial and emotional strain of James Van Der Beek’s extended medical fight.
James Van Der Beek, widely recognized for his role as Dawson Leery on the television series “Dawson’s Creek,” often spoke publicly about the importance of fatherhood.
In a 2023 interview on “Good Morning America,” he described raising his children as the most meaningful experience of his life, saying that becoming a parent shifted his priorities and brought him lasting happiness.
He also reflected on the deep sense of connection he felt with Kimberly Van Der Beek and their children.
In one of his final public interviews, James Van Der Beek spoke with Craig Melvin on “Today,” sharing how touched he was when his family received a standing ovation at a “Dawson’s Creek” reunion event he could not attend due to illness.
He described the moment as one of the most beautiful experiences of his life, expressing gratitude to fans for directing their love toward Kimberly Van Der Beek and their children.
As tributes continue, the family has asked supporters to keep Kimberly Van Der Beek, Olivia Van Der Beek, Joshua Van Der Beek, Annabel Van Der Beek, Emilia Van Der Beek, Gwendolyn Van Der Beek and Jeremiah Van Der Beek in their thoughts and prayers.
Friends and organizers say the generosity shown in James Van Der Beek’s memory reflects the compassion and connection he inspired throughout his career and personal life.
