James Van Der Beek's family thank fans for donations James Van Der Beek's family have acknowledged the support they've received over the last two days. 13 February 2026 James Van Der Beek's family have thanked fans for their recent show of support. James Van Der Beek died aged 48 The Dawson's Creek star passed away on Wednesday (11.02.26), aged 48, and his family have already received more than $2 million through their GoFundMe page. The page reads: "James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him.