James David Van Der Beek

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Kimberley Brook shared this picture of herself and husband James Van Der Beek(Image: Instagram)

The widow and children of tragic James Van Der Beek are “facing an uncertain future” following his death.

The actor, who played Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek for five years, passed away on Wednesday aged 48 after a journey with colorectal cancer. He was diagnosed in August 2023 but continued working since then, appearing in Amazon Prime sitcom Overcompensating among other shows.

But he has lost his battle with the disease, and his family now face “an incredibly difficult time”. A crowdfunding page has now been set up amid the family’s “significant financial strain”.

“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,” a description on the post reads.

The couple were married for nearly 16 years

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The couple were married for nearly 16 years(Image: Instagram/ @vanderjames)

James played Dawson Leery in Dawson's Creek between 1998 and 2003

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James played Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek between 1998 and 2003(Image: Channel 4)

James and wife Kimberly Brook, a business consultant, had six children together. The equivalent of more than £570,000 has so far been raised for Kimberley and the young children, who live in Texas.

The GoFundMe page, created by a friend, continues: “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.

“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.

“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.”

Kimberly, who married the actor in 2010, announced James’ passing via a social media post. Alongside a photo of the late performer, she wrote on Instagram: “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.”

James, who also starred as FBI agent Elijah Mundo on CSI: Cyber, went public with his diagnosis in November 2024. Speaking about his diagnosis, he said: “The trickiest thing is there are so many unknowns with cancer. You think, ‘How do I fix this? Is this healing me? Is this hurting me? Is this working? Is it coming back?’ As someone who likes answers, not knowing is one of the hardest things. I have a lot to live for.”