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James Van Der Beek‘s household is coping with the monetary aftermath of his demise. After the late Dawson’s Creek alum, 48, died on Wednesday, February 11, following a prolonged battle with colorectal most cancers, a GoFundMe web page was created to assist James’ household pay for the medical prices. As of Thursday, February 12, the fundraiser has reached greater than $1.6 million in donations.
“After an extended and brave battle with most cancers, James handed away on February 11, 2026, forsaking his devoted spouse, Kimberly, and their six great youngsters,” the GoFundMe description reads. “All through his sickness, the household confronted not solely emotional challenges but additionally vital monetary pressure as they did every little thing doable to assist James and supply for his care.”
The outline continues, “Within the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the kids are going through an unsure future. The prices of James’ medical care and the prolonged struggle towards most cancers have left the household out of funds. They’re working exhausting to remain of their house and to make sure the kids can proceed their schooling and preserve some stability throughout this extremely tough time. The assist of associates, household, and the broader group will make a world of distinction as they navigate the street forward.”
Three months earlier than his demise, James auctioned off a few of his Varsity Blues and Dawson’s Creek memorabilia to repay his medical debt.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, ready for the best time to do one thing with them, and with the entire current sudden twists and turns life has introduced lately, it’s clear that the time is now,” James mentioned in November 2025. “Whereas I’ve some nostalgia tugging at me as I half with these things, it feels good to have the ability to supply them by Propstore’s public sale to share with those that have supported my work through the years.”
The merchandise contains the necklace Dawson gave Joey for promenade, which was estimated to value between $26,400 to $52,800, in line with Individuals.
James had been combating most cancers since receiving his prognosis in 2023 however didn’t reveal it till November 2024.
“I’ve been coping with this privately till now, getting remedy and dialing in my general well being with larger focus than ever earlier than,” the late WB star wrote through Instagram on the time. “I’m in place and feeling robust. It’s been fairly the initiation, and I’ll inform you extra once I’m prepared.”
