James Van Der Beek, who was best known for his roles in Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues, died after fighting stage 3 colorectal cancer. He had a dedicated wife, Kimberly, and their six kids: four daughters and two sons. Why did this successful actor die practically penniless?
James Van Der Beek didn’t make any money from Dawson’s Creek
Because of a clause in his contract about reruns of the hit show, James Van Der Beek didn’t make any money from his role as the lead in Dawson’s Creek. James’s contract had a clause that said he couldn’t make money from reruns or streaming. He said: “I was 20. It was a bad contract. I saw almost nothing from that.”
In 1998, James became famous as Dawson Leery, the main character in Dawson’s Creek.
Even though the show has been very popular since it ended in 2003, he has said that he doesn’t make any money from reruns or streaming deals.
James told The Today Show in 2012, “There was no money left over.”
James’ medical bills had also been going through the roof, and what the family had in the bank could not tackle the massive medical debt and take care of daily life.
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GoFundMe Raises Over 1.5 Million To Save Family Home
Friends then started a GoFundMe page to help his wife , Kimberly,and their six kids, who are said to be about to lose their home because James’s medical bills are so high. After James Van Der Beek died from colorectal cancer on Wednesday, a campaign to raise money started.
The GoFundMe campaign, which both James and his wife Kimberly, shared on their Instagram stories, was mostly asking for money to help pay for Van Der Beek’s medical bills. He is 48 years old. By Thursday morning, the project had brought in $1.5 million.
Katie Holmes Says Goodbye In Heartfelt Tribute
Katie Holmes, who played Dawson’s best friend and sometimes love interest Joey Potter, paid tribute to her friend in a touching Instagram post. In a handwritten note, she shared her deep love and heartache for James and his family.
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“I formed some words with a heavy heart. This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’ journey. He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children. ❤️”
Our condolences go out to the Van Der Beek family. If you would like to donate to the GoFundMe, it is attached below.
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