GoFundMe by James Van Der Beek Surpasses $1 Million After Loss

James Van Der Beek‘s GoFundMe campaign has raised over $1 million within 24 hours of the announcement of his death, and the total continues to rise.

As of Thursday morning, the crowdfunding page has amassed $1.2 million in donations from fans and notable friends. “Dancing with the Stars” pro Derek Hough contributed strong,000, Oscar-winner Zoe Saldaña donated ,500, and the Marla Maples Foundation sent in $5,000. Additionally, Lyn Lear and YouTuber Codie Sanchez each pledged $5,000 monthly.

While TMZ has not verified the donations, it is evident that Van Der Beek’s passing has deeply affected many, as over 24,000 donations have been made.

TMZ broke the news that James passed away on Wednesday morning. His family confirmed this heartbreaking update, stating he passed “peacefully.”

Tributes from devastated friends and colleagues flooded in. Former pro wrestler Stacy Keibler shared a poignant photo of him watching the sunset from his wheelchair, reflecting on his “final days.”

Van Der Beek, widely recognized for his roles in “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues,” was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in mid-2023. He publicly revealed his diagnosis in November 2024.

His ongoing cancer treatment caused significant emotional and financial strain for him and his wife Kimberly. To help cover costs, he auctioned off iconic memorabilia. Kimberly stated on the family’s GoFundMe page that his “medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.”

He leaves behind six young children with Kimberly.