An outpouring of support for James Van Der Beek’s family has pushed a fundraising campaign well beyond its original goal just days after the actor’s death.
According to Page Six, the GoFundMe page, launched Wednesday by the late actor’s friends, surpassed $1 million in donations and had climbed to more than $1.32 million by Thursday morning.
The campaign initially aimed to raise $250,000 but was quickly increased to $1.5 million as contributions surged.
More than 26,000 donors have given to the fundraiser. Among them are several celebrities, including Zoe Saldaña, who committed to donating $2,500 a month. Derek Hough, Ricki Lake, Lydia Hearst and Kaley Cuoco also contributed.
Van Der Beek died Wednesday at age 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer. He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Kimberly, and their six children.
The fundraiser was established to help cover essential living expenses, household bills and the children’s education.
“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 reads.
It adds that the costs of cancer treatment left the family “out of funds” and “facing an uncertain future” in the wake of his passing.
“Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives,” the page states. “Thank you for considering a gift to support them.”
Kimberly shared the fundraiser on her Instagram Stories, writing, “My friends created this link to support me and our children during this time. With gratitude and a broken heart.”
Van Der Beek publicly announced his cancer diagnosis in November 2024, revealing he had first been diagnosed in August 2023.
Last year, he auctioned off personal memorabilia from “Dawson’s Creek,” including the outfit his character wore in the pilot episode, as well as jerseys from “Varsity Blues,” to help pay for treatment.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now,” he told People in November 2025.
In a statement on Wednesday, Kimberly said her husband “passed peacefully.”
“He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” she wrote. “There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
