James Van Der Beek's $4.8M Ranch Purchase Sparks GoFundMe Backlash

The late actor's family was raising funds for living expenses and children's education after his death.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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After actor James Van Der Beek passed away from colorectal cancer at age 48, his family set up a GoFundMe to cover essential living expenses and support the children's education. However, the fundraiser came under fire when it was revealed that the family had recently purchased a $4.76 million ranch in Texas, leading some to question whether they truly needed the public donations.

Why it matters

The controversy surrounding Van Der Beek's GoFundMe highlights the complexities of celebrity finances and the public's perception of how funds should be used, especially when a high-profile figure passes away and leaves behind a large family.

The details

Prior to his death, Van Der Beek had been open about struggling to pay his medical bills, even selling off personal memorabilia to raise funds. The GoFundMe campaign was set up to help his wife Kimberly and their six children cover living expenses and education costs. However, it was later revealed that the family had recently purchased a 36-acre ranch in Texas for $4.76 million, leading some to question whether they truly needed the public donations.

  • James Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, 2026.
  • The GoFundMe campaign was set up immediately after his death.
  • On February 14, 2026, Van Der Beek's representative revealed the family had secured a down payment for the Texas ranch.

The players

James Van Der Beek

A former Dawson's Creek star who passed away from colorectal cancer at the age of 48.

Kimberly Van Der Beek

James Van Der Beek's wife, who is now left to care for their six children.

GoFundMe

The crowdfunding platform used to raise money for the Van Der Beek family after James' passing.

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What’s next

The GoFundMe campaign remains active as of February 16, 2026, as the family continues to navigate their uncertain financial future following James Van Der Beek's passing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the public's scrutiny of celebrity finances and the complexities of managing personal wealth, especially when a high-profile figure passes away and leaves behind a large family. It raises questions about the appropriate use of crowdfunding platforms and the public's perception of how funds should be allocated in such situations.