Film director Steven Spielberg has donated $25,000 (£18,365) to a crowdfunding campaign supporting the family of actor James Van Der Beek, who died this week after a cancer diagnosis in 2023. The GoFundMe appeal has now raised over $2 million.
Spielberg was a surprise participant in a Dawson's Creek cast reunion event in September, which raised funds for cancer charities and Van Der Beek's medical treatment. The director sent a video message referencing the actor's character Dawson Leery, an aspiring filmmaker who idolised Spielberg.
Other industry figures have also contributed, including actress Zoe Saldaña, who pledged a monthly $2,500 stipend, and Wicked director Jon M Chu, who donated $10,000. Van Der Beek auctioned memorabilia in December, including an ET toy that sold for nearly $6,000.
A statement from Van Der Beek's family expressed gratitude: 'Your kindness has meant more than we can put into words. In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light.'
