Hollywood figures are continuing to rally around the family of late actor James Van Der Beek, with actress Zoe Saldaña among those making significant contributions to a fundraising campaign established for his wife Kimberley and their six children.
More than 35,000 people have donated to a GoFundMe page launched with an initial target of $US250,000. The campaign has now raised more than $US1.9 million to support the family following the actor’s death.
The Dawson’s Creek star died “peacefully” after a battle with cancer at the age of 48, with his family announcing the news on social media on Wednesday.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future,” the GoFundMe page states.
“The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.”
According to People magazine, Oscar-winning actress Zoe Saldaña has set up a recurring $US2,500 monthly donation to help the family.
Filmmaker Steven Spielberg pledged $US25,000 to the fundraiser, while Wicked director Jonathan M. Chu donated $US10,000. Other reported contributors include Derek Hough, Ricki Lake, Lydia Hearst and Kaley Cuoco.
In an update posted to the fundraising page on Friday, organisers thanked supporters and asked for privacy.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for showing up for James and his beautiful family,” the message states.
“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.”
Tributes have also continued from former co-stars and members of the entertainment industry.
Katie Holmes, who starred alongside Van Der Beek in Dawson’s Creek, shared a handwritten message on Instagram.
“I formed some words with a heavy heart. This is a lot to process,” she wrote.
“I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’s journey.
“He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children.”
Busy Phillips, who joined the cast in later seasons, said she was “heartbroken” for the family.
“My heart is deeply hurting for all of us today,” she wrote.
“Every person who knew James and loved him, anyone who loved his work or had the pleasure of meeting him, all of his dear friends and community that surrounded him as he battled this illness, especially his parents and brother and sister.”
Mary-Margaret Humes, who played his mother on the show, described him as a “warrior”.
“Rarely am I at a loss for words … today would be the exception,” she wrote.
“James, my gracious warrior, you fought a hard battle against all odds with such quiet strength and dignity. I will always love and admire you for that. Our last conversations … merely a few days ago … are forever sitting softly in my heart for safe keeping. “
Actress Sarah Michelle Gellar remembered him as “one of the good guys”, while Jennifer Garner described his death as heartbreaking.
Derek Hough also paid tribute, with a clip honouring his memory.
“My heart is heavy hearing about James’ passing,” he posted. “Thank you, James, for your courage, your strength, and for sharing your light even in your darkest moments.”
Melissa Joan-Hart wrote: “Gone way too soon but it seems like he put up one hell of a fight,” while Alyssa Milano described him as “a unicorn of a man”.
“There are people in this industry who are talented. Some who are charismatic. A few who are generous,” Milano wrote.
“And then there were the rare ones — the truly kind and thoughtful. James was the rare kind. He showed up for his people. He listened. He cared.”
Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2024 and became an advocate for cancer screening during his illness.
Images: Instagram
