James Van Der Beek's Loved Ones Express Gratitude for Overwhelming Support
The family and close friends of James Van Der Beek have expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of support following the actor's tragic death. The Dawson's Creek star passed away at age 48 on Wednesday after a courageous battle with stage three colorectal cancer, a fact confirmed by his family through a heartfelt social media announcement.
GoFundMe Campaign Exceeds Expectations
In response to the financial strain caused by Van Der Beek's health battle, close friends launched a GoFundMe page on Wednesday to support his widow, Kimberly, and their six children. The campaign quickly gained momentum, surpassing its initial goal of $1.5 million and raising over $2 million by Friday. Organizers described the support as 'a light' during a time of deep grief.
'Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for showing up for James and his beautiful family,' friends wrote in a message on the page. 'Your kindness has meant more than we can put into words. In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light. It reminds us that love is real, that community is strong, and that James's spirit continues to bring people together.'
Celebrity Donations and Tributes Pour In
The GoFundMe page attracted significant contributions from notable figures in the entertainment industry. Zoe Saldana donated $2,500 and committed to monthly contributions of the same amount, while filmmaker Steven Spielberg and his wife Kate Capshaw made a generous $25,000 donation. Other substantial donations included $50,000 from Caldera Lab and $25,000 from Guardant Health, a company dedicated to cancer care through blood tests.
Van Der Beek's passing has also prompted an emotional wave of tributes from fans and former co-stars. Katie Holmes, his Dawson's Creek castmate, shared a handwritten note on Instagram, reflecting on their shared memories and praising his bravery and compassion. 'James. Thank you. To share space with your imagination is sacred,' she wrote, offering love to Kimberly and the children.
Family Requests Privacy During Mourning
In their statement, Van Der Beek's friends emphasized the need for privacy as the family grieves. 'The late star's family is taking time to mourn and be with one another,' the message read, requesting space for Kimberly and their children to heal. The statement concluded with a plea to keep the family in thoughts and prayers, honoring Van Der Beek's life with compassion and generosity.
Van Der Beek, who married Kimberly in 2010, is survived by their six children: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 4. His diagnosis was announced in November 2024, and a source revealed that aggressive cancer had limited treatment options in his final days.
Final Moments and Lasting Legacy
Alfonso Ribeiro, a close friend and godfather to Van Der Beek's daughter Gwendolyn, shared a poignant glimpse into the actor's final moments. In a photo posted online, Ribeiro noted that he made Van Der Beek laugh one last time before saying goodbye. 'My last moment was making him laugh one last time,' he wrote, highlighting the actor's enduring spirit.
On Thursday, Kimberly reposted a video of Alana Springsteen singing a cover of I Don't Want To Wait, the Dawson's Creek theme song, as a tribute. Springsteen encouraged followers to visit the GoFundMe page, while original singer Paula Cole expressed tears and gratitude for the homage. The overwhelming response underscores the impact Van Der Beek had on both his community and the wider public, leaving a legacy of love and resilience.
