The Hollywood legend and his wife Kate Capshaw have donated a huge sum towards the family.
James Van Der Beek’s family have been given a huge sum of money by Hollywood legend Steven Spielberg. Following a battle with colorectal cancer, the Dawson’s Creek star died aged 48 on Wednesday.
In the wake of his sad death, his family launched a GoFundMe page after their finances had been wiped out by his cancer treatment. He had been diagnosed with the condition in August 2023 but, until he went public in November 2024, had decided to battle it privately.
As reported by the Mirror, his widow Kimberly said that she and their six children were facing an “uncertain future” due to the extremely high costs he had to cover during his treatment. But now, Hollywood legend and Jaws filmmaker Spielberg and his wife Kate Capshaw have donated a huge sum towards the family.
There was no note attached to the donation, but the 79-year-old forked out $25,000 towards helping the Van Der Beeks. At the time of publishing, a staggering $1,732,319 has been raised, with Steven and Kate being the top donors. American filmmaker Jon M. Chu has also donated $10,000.
Talent agent Kevin Huvane has also parted ways with $5,000. Actress Zoe Saldana, meanwhile, has pledged to donate $2,500 every month. On Wednesday, James’ wife said: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.
“There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
She added: “James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026, leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children. Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.
“They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time. The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.”
Prior to James’ death, he also sold his Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues memorabilia to fund his treatment. Fans were able to get their hands on the outfit he wore in the first episode of Dawson’s Creek, which was expected to sell for up to £3,000. They were also able to purchase the necklace Dawson gave to on-screen girlfriend Joey, for prom, which was estimated to go for around £40,000.
Speaking of selling off his memorabilia in order to raise funds for treatment, James said: “I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now.
“While I have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these items, it feels good to be able to offer them through Propstore’s auction to share with those who have supported my work over the years.”
For more information or support about bowel cancer, you can contact Macmillan Cancer Support or you can call 020 7940 1760 for advice.
If you have been affected by this story, Cruse Bereavement Support offers free help to make sense of how you are feeling. Click here for their website or call 0808 808 1677.
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