Steven Spielberg Donates $25K to James Van Der Beek’s GoFundMe as It Hits $2M

Steven Spielberg and his wife, Kate Capshaw, are among those who have donated to James Van Der Beek‘s GoFundMe page for the late actor’s family.

The Oscar-winning filmmaker donated $25,000 to the account, launched by the Dawson’s Creek star’s close friends for his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children. The GoFundMe is asking for financial aid after medical costs left them “out of funds.”

Van Der Beek, 48, died Wednesday morning following a battle with colorectal cancer. He initially announced in November 2024 that he had “been privately dealing with this diagnosis” since August 2023.

As of Thursday at 7:30 p.m. PT, more than $2 million had been raised of a goal of $1.5 million. Early on Wednesday, the donation goal was much lower, at $550,000, but as donations kept flooding in, organizers kept increasing it. And less than 24 hours after the GoFundMe page was created, it had already surpassed $1 million in donations.

“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for showing up for James and his beautiful family. Your kindness has meant more than we can put into words. In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light. It reminds us that love is real, that community is strong, and that James’s spirit continues to bring people together,” friends of the Van Der Beek family shared in a new GoFundMe message. “Right now, the family is taking time to mourn and be with one another. We kindly ask members of the media and the public to give them space and privacy as they walk through this painful season. Your respect and understanding will give them the room they need to heal. Please continue to keep James’s wife and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for honoring his life with compassion, generosity, and love.”

While Spielberg and Van Der Beek never officially worked together on a film or television project, the actor’s character in Dawson’s Creek idolized the director as his filmmaking hero, with Dawson’s bedroom featuring several Spielberg movie posters.

However, the Disclosure Day director did surprise fans of the drama series at the show’s reunion in New York City last year with a video message. “Dawson, you made it. Maybe someday, I will get to have a Dawson’s closet,” Spielberg said.

Other Hollywood notables who have appeared to donate to Van Der Beek’s GoFundMe include Wicked: For Good director Jon M. Chu, who sent $10,000, Oscar-winner Zoe Saldana (under her married name, Zoe Saldaña-Perego), who donated $2,500 monthly.

The initial message listed on the GoFundMe read, “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,” the statement continued. “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.”

Updated Feb. 12 at 7:30 p.m. PT: New GoFundMe message and donation amount increasing from $1.8 million to $2 million.