Home / Arts and Entertainment / Stars Rally for Van Der Beek Family After Cancer Battle
Stars Rally for Van Der Beek Family After Cancer Battle
14 Feb
Summary
- GoFundMe launched for James Van Der Beek's family after his passing.
- Steven Spielberg donated $25,000 to the family's fundraiser.
- Celebrities defended the family amid questions about their financial needs.
Actor James Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48 after a battle with stage III colorectal cancer. His family, including his wife Kimberly and their six children, has received widespread support following his death. A GoFundMe campaign was initiated by friends to address the "significant financial strain" the family endured during his treatment.
This fundraiser has garnered over $2 million, with a substantial $25,000 donation from Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw. Despite broad public and celebrity support, some have questioned the family's financial need, given Van Der Beek's Hollywood career. However, it was revealed that he did not receive residuals from "Dawson's Creek" due to a prior contract and had even sold memorabilia to aid cancer patients.
Several celebrities have publicly defended the Van Der Beek family. Actress Donna Vivino clarified that the family rented their home and that James was not living off residuals, emphasizing the extreme costs associated with cancer treatment. Other stars, including Braunwyn Windham-Burke, Deborah Cox, Hassie Harrison, and Michelle Stafford, shared personal experiences with overwhelming medical debt, underscoring that such financial burdens can impact even those with insurance or successful careers.
