James Van Der Beek’s widow and children ‘facing uncertain future’ | US | News
James Van Der Beek dies: Dawson’s Creek star dies at 48 after battle with cancer (Image: Instagram/ @vanderjames)
The grieving wife and children of the late James Van Der Beek are grappling with “facing an uncertain future” following his death.
The actor, best known for his five-year role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, died Wednesday at the age of 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer. Despite being diagnosed in August 2023, he continued to work, appearing in the Amazon Prime sitcom Overcompensating, among other shows.
But he succumbed to the disease, leaving his family facing “an incredibly difficult time”. A crowdfunding page has been set up due to the family’s “significant financial hardship”.
“After this loss, Kimberly and the children face an uncertain future. The costs of James’ medical care and the long battle with cancer have left the family without funds,” a statement included in the post said.
James and his wife, Kimberly Brook, a business consultant, had six children. Over £570,000 has been raised so far for Kimberley and her young children living in Texas.
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The GoFundMe page set up by a friend adds: “Throughout his illness the family faced not only emotional difficulties but also significant financial difficulties as they did everything possible to support and care for James.
“They are working hard to stay in their homes and ensure children can continue their education and maintain stability during this incredibly difficult time.
“The support of friends, family and the wider community will make a huge difference as you navigate the road ahead.
James Van Der Beek from Dawson Creek on stage in April 2000 FREE FOR CHANNEL FOUR PROGRAM PROMOTION ONLY (Image: Channel 4)
“Your generosity will help cover basic living expenses, pay bills, and support 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.”
Kimberly, who married the actor in 2010, revealed James’ death with a social media post. He wrote on Instagram alongside a photo of the late star:
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning.
Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He faced his final days with courage, faith and grace. He has a lot to share about his wishes, his love for people, and the sanctity of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. (Image: Instagram)
“He met his final days with courage, faith and grace. There is much to share about his wishes, his love of humanity and the sanctity of time.
“Those days will come. For now, we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve the pain of our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
James, also known for his role as FBI agent Elijah Mundo on the TV series CSI: Cyber, announced his diagnosis in November 2024. He said this about his situation:
“The hardest part is that there are so many unknowns about cancer. ‘How can I fix this? Does this make me better? Does it hurt? Does this work? Is it coming back?’ you think. As someone who loves answers, not knowing is one of the hardest things. I have a lot to live for.”
