A GoFundMe page for James Van Der Beek’s family has received more than $1 million in donations since the actor’s death.
The page, created by Van Der Beek’s friends on Wednesday, had raised more than $1.32 million as of Thursday morning.
The original goal for the fundraiser was $500,000, which increased to $1.5 million on Wednesday.
More than 26,000 people have donated to GoFundMe, including actress Zoe Saldaña, who has set up a recurring monthly donation of $2,500.
Other celebrity donors include Derek Hough, Ricki Lake, Lydia Hearst and Kaley Cuoco.
Van der Beek died on Wednesday at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer, leaving behind his wife of 15 years, Kimberly, and six children.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help the Van Der Beek family cover essential living expenses, bills and their children’s education.
“During his illness, the family did everything possible to support James and provide for his care, and as well as facing mental health challenges, they also faced significant financial burdens,” the page reads.
The fundraiser added that Mr van der Beek’s loved ones were “strapped for funds” due to his expensive cancer treatment costs and “faced an uncertain future” following his death.
“Every donation, regardless of size, helps Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives,” the page states. “Thank you for considering making a gift to support them.”
Kimberly shared a link to the GoFundMe on her Instagram Stories, writing: “My friends have created this link to support me and my children during this time. With gratitude and heartbreak.”
James announced in November 2024 that he had cancer, and revealed that he was diagnosed with cancer over a year ago in August 2023.
He auctioned off his “Dawson’s Creek” memorabilia, including the outfit Dawson wore in the show’s pilot, and his jersey from the movie “Varsity Blues,” which he starred in late last year, to raise money for cancer treatment.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and given life’s recent unexpected twists and turns, it’s clear that now is the time,” he told People in November.
Kimberly said in a statement Wednesday announcing her husband’s death that he “passed away peacefully.”
“He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” she wrote on Instagram.
“He has so much to share about his wishes, his love for humanity, and the sanctity of time. That day will come,” Kimberly added. “At this time we ask for peace and privacy as we grieve our beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
