NEWSSteven Spielberg Donates $250K to James Van Der Beek's GoFundMe Page After Actor's Wife Reveals Financial Struggles
Steven Spielberg donated to James Van Der Beek's GoFundMe Page one day after the actor passed away.
Feb. 12 2026, Published 3:35 p.m. ET
One day after James Van Der Beek died at 48 years old, Steven Spielberg and his wife, Kate Capshaw, gave a generous amount of money to the actor's wife, Kimberly, and his family.
According to a screenshot, the director, 79, donated $250,000 on Thursday, February 12.
The director donated $250,000 to the GoFundMe page.
As OK! previously reported, Kimberly announced she and her family were having some financial issues.
"James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him," the fundraiser page read. "After a long and courageous battle with cancer, James passed away on February 11, 2026, leaving behind his devoted wife, Kimberly, and their six wonderful children."
"Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care," the description continued, noting Kimberly and the children are now "facing an uncertain future" after his death.
The actor was battling cancer.
Due to James' Stage 3 cancer, the "costs of James's medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds," the message read. "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."
Donations "will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children's education," the statement continued, noting any expense will "help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives."
- James Van Der Beek's Widow Kimberly Shares GoFundMe Page After Actor's Illness Left Family 'Out of Funds'
- James Van Der Beek's 'Dawson's Creek' Costar Katie Holmes Reflects on Their Friendship After His Sudden Death: 'This Is Hard to Process'
- Cancer-Stricken James Van Der Beek Looked Gaunt in Final Photo Shared by Wife Kimberly 2 Months Before His Sad Death
Want OK! each day? Sign up here!
Jon M. Chu donated $10,000.
The goal was originally set for $250,000, but it reached over $1 million as of this writing.
Other top donors include Wicked director Jon M. Chu and talent manager and investor Guy Oseary, who each donated $10,000. The Marla Maples Foundation, a non-profit organization set up by actress Marla Maples, donated $5,000.
Kimberly Van Beek announced the death on social media.
Kimberly announced the news of her husband's death on Instagram on February 11, writing, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning."
"He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time,” she continued. “Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."
