James Van Der Beek’s Family GoFundMe Surpasses $2.3 Million Post-Star’s Death
James Van Der Beek’s passing has led to an outpouring of support for his family, with a GoFundMe campaign surpassing $2.3 million. The campaign was initiated following the actor’s death at age 48 from Stage 3 colorectal cancer, a battle he had been fighting since 2023.
GoFundMe Campaign Details
The fundraiser, titled “Support for James Van Der Beek’s Family,” was set up by friends and loved ones. Kimberly Van Der Beek, James’s wife, is the beneficiary of the funds. The campaign reached a milestone of over $2 million within 24 hours of his passing on Wednesday.
Donations and Contributions
- As of Friday afternoon, the campaign had raised more than $2.3 million.
- A notable donation of $25,000 came from filmmaker Steven Spielberg and his wife, actress Kate Capshaw.
- Actress Zoe Saldaña committed a recurring monthly donation of $2,500.
- An anonymous donor contributed $30,000.
According to the campaign’s statement, the family has encountered significant emotional and financial challenges due to James’s illness. The funds raised will assist in covering living expenses, paying bills, and supporting the education of their six children.
Family Background
James and Kimberly Van Der Beek married in 2010 and have six children: Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, Joshua, and Jeremiah. The statement noted, “Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future.”
The GoFundMe page emphasized that the financial burden of medical care and ongoing cancer treatment had severely impacted the family’s finances. The support from the community is vital for them to maintain stability during this difficult period.
Community Support and Updates
An update from “Friends of the Van Der Beek Family” was posted, thanking supporters and expressing gratitude for the community’s kindness. The update highlighted the family’s need for privacy while they grieve.
Prior to his death, James had sought public support by auctioning personal memorabilia to help cover his medical expenses. Notably, a necklace from his character in “Dawson’s Creek” sold for $26,628, contributing to over $47,000 raised from memorabilia sales.
Prior Fundraising Efforts
In the months leading to his passing, actor Paul Walter Hauser also raised over $14,000 through Cameo, a platform where celebrities create personalized video messages. Hauser expressed his heartfelt condolences and support for the Van Der Beek family following the announcement of James’s death.
The community’s overwhelming response underscores the impact James Van Der Beek had on those around him, solidifying his legacy as a cherished husband, father, and friend.
