James Van Der Beek died on Wednesday after a long and public battle with colorectal cancer. The disease eventually made it impossible for the 48-year-old actor to continue working, and significant medical bills piled up for his wife, Kimberly, and their six children. Shortly after the news of his death broke, friends launched a GoFundMe to help support his family. In less than 24 hours, the fundraiser surpassed $1 million in donations.
The outpouring of generosity was swift and overwhelming. The following morning, the GoFundMe had raised more than $1.3 million, with the goal increased to $1.5 million. More than 26,000 people contributed to the effort, including several well-known names in Hollywood.
“After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026 leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children,” the description reads. “Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care.”
The page explains that “the costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.” It adds that Kimberly and the children “are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time.”
Among those who donated was Zoe Saldaña, who committed $2,500 a month. Other celebrity supporters include Derek Hough, Ricki Lake, Lydia Hearst, Kaley Cuoco, Rumer Willis and Chad Michael Murray, many of whom also shared the fundraiser with their followers.
Chad Michael Murray encouraged others to step in with compassion, writing, “Let’s be a blessing to his family. He was a blessing to us.” Actress Patricia Arquette also urged fans to give, commenting, “Look up Support for James Van Der Beek’s family to support through this time.”
Kimberly shared the link herself in a brief but emotional message. “My friends created this link to support me and my children during this time,” she wrote. “With gratitude and a broken heart.”
In her original statement announcing her husband’s passing, she reflected on the way he faced the end of his life. “He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” she wrote. “For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Van Der Beek first revealed his diagnosis publicly in November 2024, sharing that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August 2023. Though he continued working for a time, the toll of treatment eventually forced him to step back. Last year, he auctioned off personal “Dawson’s Creek” memorabilia and jerseys from “Varsity Blues” to help cover medical costs.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them,” he told People in November 2025. “With all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now.”
The fundraiser concludes with a reminder of how much even small acts of generosity can mean: “Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them.”
In the midst of deep loss, the response from friends, fans and fellow actors has shown what it looks like when a community rallies around a grieving family — offering not only words of comfort, but real and practical support.