James Van Der Beek's Family Buys $4.7M Ranch Amid Cancer Battle

The Dawson's Creek star finalized the purchase weeks before his death, sparking criticism over a GoFundMe campaign for his family.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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James Van Der Beek, the former Dawson's Creek star who died of stage 3 colorectal cancer at age 48, managed to secure a $4.76 million Texas ranch for his family just weeks before his passing. The family had previously been renting the 36-acre property outside Austin, but with help from friends, Van Der Beek was able to finalize the purchase on January 9. However, the revelation of the ranch purchase has sparked criticism over a GoFundMe campaign that has raised $2.6 million for Van Der Beek's family following his death.

Why it matters

The purchase of the expensive Texas ranch by Van Der Beek, who was known to have financial struggles due to a "bad contract" from his Dawson's Creek days, has raised questions about the need for the GoFundMe campaign launched to support his family after his death. Some have accused the campaign of being unnecessary or even a "troll job" in light of the family's recent real estate acquisition.

The details

According to Van Der Beek's representatives, the actor finalized the $4.76 million purchase of the 36-acre Texas ranch on January 9, just weeks before his death from stage 3 colorectal cancer on February 11. The family had previously been renting the property outside Austin, but with help from friends who contributed to a trust, Van Der Beek was able to secure the down payment and complete the purchase.

  • Van Der Beek finalized the $4.76 million purchase of the Texas ranch on January 9, 2026.
  • Van Der Beek died from stage 3 colorectal cancer on February 11, 2026.

The players

James Van Der Beek

The former Dawson's Creek star who purchased a $4.76 million ranch in Texas for his family weeks before his death from cancer at age 48.

Van Der Beek's representatives

Spoke to the media about the ranch purchase and the subsequent GoFundMe campaign for the family.

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What they’re saying

“You have no idea the pain they went through.”

— Mehcad Brooks, Actor (Newsweek)

“James Van Der Beek got "no residual money" from Dawson's Creek due to a "bad contract".”

— Donna Vivino, Broadway performer (Independent)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.