Actress Zoe Saldana has pledged to donate $2,500 each month to a fundraiser established for the family of James Van Der Beek following the actor’s passing on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The donation reflects a broader effort by friends and fans to assist the family during a difficult period, amid the increased need arising from medical and living expenses.
Fundraiser Grows Amid Rising Financial Needs
The GoFundMe campaign for James Van Der Beek’s family initially aimed to raise $550,000 but the goal was raised to $1.5 million as expenses mounted. By the time of reporting, over $1.2 million had been collected, with contributions coming from celebrities like Derek Hough, Lydia Hearst, Ricki Lake, and notably Zoe Saldana.
The fundraiser description reveals that after a prolonged battle with stage III colorectal cancer, Van Der Beek’s family has exhausted their funds covering medical bills and is now facing uncertainty with financing ongoing living costs and maintaining their home in Texas.
James Van Der Beek’s Battle with Cancer and Legacy
James Van Der Beek disclosed his diagnosis in November 2024, bravely confronting stage III colorectal cancer until his death at age 48. His family publicly announced his passing with a statement honoring his courage and faith in his final days.
Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace,
a family statement said.
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.
He leaves behind his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children: daughters Olivia (15), Annabel (12), Emilia (9), Gwendolyn (7), and sons Joshua (13) and Jeremiah (4).
Fundraiser Appeals to Help Family Build Stability
According to the GoFundMe site, the family faces significant financial strain following James’ illness. Beyond medical bills, the costs for daily living and the children’s education are critical concerns. Kimberly Van Der Beek’s family is working diligently to keep their home and provide stability for their children.
James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him,
the fundraiser page states.
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.
The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead,
the page continues.
Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them.
Hollywood Pays Tribute and Offers Support
The entertainment community expressed heartfelt sorrow following the news. Several colleagues from James Van Der Beek’s “Dawson’s Creek” days shared their condolences publicly. Among them, Katie Holmes expressed deep admiration for his character and extended compassion to his family.
James, thank you. To share space with your imagination is sacred — breathing the same air in the land of make-believe and trusting that each other’s hearts are safe in their expression,
Holmes posted on Instagram on February 12. She acknowledged his bravery and generosity and offered comfort directly to the family.
I mourn this loss with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it,
Holmes wrote, adding,
To Kimberly and the children, we are here for you always. And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion.
Continuing Support from Celebrities and Community
Alongside Zoe Saldana’s ongoing donations, other notable figures such as Derek Hough, Lydia Hearst, Ricki Lake, and Melissa Joan Hart have contributed to the GoFundMe fundraiser. Their support underscores a collective effort to aid the Van Der Beek family as they face the aftermath of James’s illness and passing.
This outpouring reflects not only respect for James’s work and life but also a genuine concern for the family’s wellbeing during an uncertain future.
Looking Ahead: Support to Sustain the Van Der Beek Family
The momentum behind the fundraiser suggests a strong community commitment to help Kimberly Van Der Beek and her children maintain stability. As the family copes with grief and financial challenges, the donations will be crucial in providing for their living needs, educational expenses, and preserving their home in Texas.
Zoe Saldana’s dedication of $2,500 monthly stands as a significant contribution toward these goals, demonstrating the lasting impact James Van Der Beek had on friends and peers across Hollywood and beyond.
