Katie Holmes Breaks Silence, Van Der Beek Family GoFundMe Reaches $1.5M

AUSTIN, Texas (THECOUNT) — In the hours after news broke of James Van Der Beek’s death, his longtime Dawson’s Creek co-star Katie Holmes shared a handwritten Instagram tribute honoring the man she once knew as Dawson.

Holmes reflected on her time working alongside Van Der Beek, writing that she always felt safe to express herself on set with him. She recalled memories filled with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs, and what she described as the “adventures of a unique youth” they experienced while filming the show that defined a generation of teen television.

She praised Van Der Beek’s compassion, bravery, selflessness, and strength, and directed part of her message toward his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, assuring them they would always be surrounded with love and support.

Holmes’ tribute was among dozens from actors and public figures following the news of Van Der Beek’s death. Fellow Dawson’s Creek cast members Busy Philipps and Kerr Smith also shared remembrances, along with other entertainers including Sarah Michelle Gellar, Jennifer Garner, and Reese Witherspoon.

Van Der Beek had been open about his health struggles in recent years. He was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in mid-2023 and went public with the diagnosis in November 2024. Despite the seriousness of his condition, he remained active in promoting cancer awareness and screening, including participation in a two-hour special of The Real Full Monty in December 2024 aimed at raising awareness for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing.

Throughout his illness, Van Der Beek spoke about the role faith and family played in helping him endure treatment. He credited his wife and children as central to his strength during his fight against the disease.

Friends of the family established a GoFundMe campaign to assist Kimberly and the children following his passing, citing financial strain caused by extensive cancer treatments. The fundraiser reportedly surpassed $1 million within hours of the announcement.

Via GoFundMe:

“James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him. 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.

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. 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.”

Van Der Beek rose to prominence as the title character in Dawson’s Creek, which aired from 1998 to 2003 and became one of the defining teen dramas of its era. His on-screen relationship with Holmes’ Joey Potter became one of the most recognized storylines in late-1990s television.

He later appeared in films including Varsity Blues and Scary Movie, and had television roles in Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, How I Met Your Mother, One Tree Hill, and Pose.

Van Der Beek, best known for his role as Dawson Leery on the hit television series Dawson’s Creek, has died at age 48, according to TMZ and confirmation from a representative with the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office. The report was received at 6:44 a.m. local time. No official cause of death has been released.

Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children: daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah.

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