Fans of James Van Der Beek have come together in a massive show of support following the actor’s tragic passing. The beloved Dawson’s Creek star died at 48 on February 11, 2026, after a battle with colorectal cancer, a diagnosis he reportedly received in 2023.

Shortly after the heartbreaking news broke, Van Der Beek’s friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to help his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their children. The fundraiser quickly gained traction as fans began donating and sharing emotional tributes online.

The GoFundMe message explained that the costs of James’s medical care and the long fight against cancer left the family financially strained. It also noted that Kimberly and the children are now facing an uncertain future while trying to stay in their home and maintain stability.

Within just one day, the fundraiser exploded. The goal originally started at $250,000, but as donations poured in, it was repeatedly increased. By February 12, the campaign had officially crossed $1 million, with the target later raised to $1.3 million.

With fans rallying behind the family so quickly, many are now asking what James Van Der Beek’s life looked like at home and who the loved ones are that he left behind.

James Van Der Beek’s family: About wife, Kimberly and their six children

James Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, whom he married in 2010 after meeting the year before. While James was known worldwide for his acting career, Kimberly has built her own identity as an actress, producer, and business consultant, and has also been involved in wellness-focused work.

Together, the couple raised six children, and James was often seen as a devoted family man who prioritized his role as a father. Their children include Olivia (15), Joshua (13), Annabel (12), Emilia (9), Gwendolyn (7), and Jeremiah (4).

The GoFundMe page states that the money raised will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education, helping the family maintain stability as they face life without him.

James Van Der Beek’s death has left fans heartbroken, but the overwhelming response to the GoFundMe campaign has shown just how deeply he was loved. Raising more than $1 million in such a short time is not only a financial milestone but also a powerful reminder of the impact he had on audiences around the world.

As Kimberly and their six children move forward through grief, the support pouring in from fans and the wider community is giving them hope, stability, and the reassurance that they are not facing this loss alone.

What are your favorite James Van Der Beek memories from Dawson’s Creek or his other projects? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Karishma Dasgupta

Edited by

Aliza Siddiqui