Overview
- James Van Der Beek died on Feb. 11 at age 48 after a publicly disclosed battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, according to his family and representative.
- Donations for his widow, Kimberly, and their six children have exceeded $2.5 million, including a $25,000 contribution from Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw.
- Realtor.com records indicate he bought the 36‑acre ranch in Spicewood, Texas, on Jan. 9 for about $4.76 million through an LLC in an off‑market deal.
- A representative told People that friends helped provide a down payment via a trust so the family could shift from renting to a mortgage.
- Public figures defended the crowdfunding as supporters pointed to his lack of Dawson’s Creek residuals and recent memorabilia sales, while his brother and sister posted heartfelt tributes.