A GoFundMe for James Van Der Beek's family raised over $1.2 million less than 24 hours after he died

• "Dawson's Creek" star James Van Der Beek died at the age of 48.
• He was diagnosed with colorectal cancer three years ago.
• A GoFundMe was launched to help pay his medical bills and support his wife and six children.

Actor James Van Der Beek's wife, Kimberly, appears to have backed a GoFundMe in the wake of the "Dawson's Creek" actor's death on Wednesday from colorectal cancer.

The campaign — shared on both James and Kimberly's Instagram stories — states the mother of the star's six kids as the organizer.

The initiative, which has raised $1.247 million by Thursday morning, primarily called for donations to help cover 48-year-old Van Der Beek's medical bills.

"In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future," the GoFundMe read. "The costs of James's medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds."

It said the bereaved family is "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."

Business Insider dug into the financial costs of the disease in its series on colon cancer in younger adults last year. Our reporting found that a cancer diagnosis would cost the average 35-year-old woman at least $45,000 in the first year.

The appeal went on to say that financial support from others would make a "world of difference" as Van Der Beek's loved ones "navigate the road ahead."

The money raised was said to help fund the family's living expenses, pay bills, and support the kids' education.

"Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives," the GoFundMe said.

In her Instagram story, Kimberly wrote, "My friends created this link to support me and our children during this time. With gratitude and a broken heart."

A spokesperson for GoFundMe told Business Insider, "We are working with the organizer to ensure funds safely reach the intended beneficiary."

They added, "Funds are being held safely by our payment processor in the meantime." The company confirmed the funds were going to James's wife.

Van Der Beek's wife announced his death on Instagram

Kimberly announced on Wednesday her husband's death on Instagram, saying, "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."

2 months ago, the star said he felt 'strong.'

Van Der Beek received his cancer diagnosis three years ago. He made his final public appearance on NBC in December 2025 when he seemed optimistic about his health.

"I feel much, much better than I did a couple months ago," Van Der Beek told NBC News anchor Craig Melvin.

He added, "It's been a longer journey than I ever thought it would be. It's required more of me — more patience, more discipline, more strength than I knew I had. I knew I was strong — I didn't know I was this strong."

The same month, the 90s actor auctioned off personal memorabilia from the filming of "Dawson's Creek" to help his family and meet bills for his cancer treatment.