James Van Der Beek Remembered By Hollywood, Donations Made To Fundraiser For Family
James Van Der Beek unfortunately passed away this week after being diagnosed with cancer in 2023. The actor is known for playing multiple notable roles, one of his most recognized being Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, the 90s teen soap that made him a household name.
Actors, directors, and colleagues all throughout Hollywood have posted tributes to Van Der Beek while promoting and donating to his foundation to help his wife Kimberly and their six children.
Film director Steven Spielberg has donated $25,000 to a crowdfunder to help his family. In Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek’s character idolized Speilberg, as he was based on the show’s creator Kevin Williamson, who is also known for writing famous horror-comedy Scream and other films within the franchise.
Spielberg was also a contributor to a Dawson’s Creek reunion in September which helped raise funds for F**k Cancer and Van Der Beek’s medical treatments. He sent in a video message saying:
“Dawson, you made it. Maybe someday, I will get to have a Dawson’s closet.”
Van Der Beek was unfortunately too sick to attend the event in person, but also sent a video message. In December, he auctioned off memorabilia from the show as well to help pay for his medical bills. This included some of the iconic bedroom props that showed off Dawson’s love for Spielberg.
Donations to the GoFundMe for Van Der Beek’s family has now surpassed $2 million, prompting them to release a thankful and loving message:
“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 Jame’s spirit continues to bring people together.”
Others also donated to the fund including Zoe Saldaña, who pledged a monthly stipend of $2,500, Wicked director Jon M Chu who donated $10,000, and both Cameo co-founder Martin Blencowe and talent agency Guy Oseary.
Additionally, according to the Guardian, OpenAI CEO Fidji Simo has donated $5,000 as well as director Ellie Kanner. Danielle Marquez Levinson, wife of film producer Stephen Levinson, gave $10,000, and fashion designer Tracy Robbins and talent agent Kevin Huvane both donated $5,000.
Some top donors also remained anonymous with one giving $30,000 and another pledging $5,000 monthly.
Guardant Health gave $25,000. Van Der Beek was the first brand ambassador for their new blood test for colorectal cancer screenings.
“His voice and advocacy will leave a lasting mark on the fight against colorectal cancer,” a spokesperson wrote on the GoFundMe page.
Eric Mastrota is a Contributing Editor at The National Digest based in New York. A graduate of SUNY New Paltz, he reports on world news, culture, and lifestyle. You can reach him at eric.mastrota@thenationaldigest.com.
