James Van Der Beek died Wednesday after a long and public battle with colorectal cancer. The disease made it impossible for Van Der Beek to work, and significant bills piled up for his wife Kimberly and their six children. Shortly after the news broke of his death, Van Der Beek‘s friends launched a GoFundMe to help his family. Less than 24 hours after announcing the fundraiser, the account reached more than $1 million in donations.
“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. in the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future,” reads the appeal to fans. “The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They 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. The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.
“Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education,” it concludes. “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.”
Earlier on Wednesday, over 2,600 people had stepped forward to help raise nearly $215,000 of the page’s goal of $550,000. Later in the day, a new goal of $1.3 million had been set and over $1 million was raised.
Last September, the cast of Dawson’s Creek came together at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City to read the script of the show’s original pilot and raise money for Van Der Beek. He originally planned to intend, but had to back out after coming down with a stomach bug. He addressed the audience via video. “I can’t believe I don’t get to hug my castmates,” he said. “I wanted to stand on that stage and thank every single person in this theater for being here tonight.”
Following his death, tributes have poured in from his friends, Hollywood peers, and former cast members. His Dawson’s Creek co-star Busy Philipps shared a remembrance of the actor, writing in a social media post, “My heart is deeply hurting for all of us today…every person who knew James and loved him, anyone who loved his work or had the pleasure of meeting him, all of his dear friends and community that surrounded him as he battled this illness, especially his parents and brother and sister.” She added, “James Van Der Beek was one in a billion and he will be forever missed.”
This article was updated on Feb. 12 at 12:44 a.m. ET to include news of James Van Der Beek’s GoFundMe raising over $1 million.
