James Van Der Beek’s Family Faces Financial Challenges While Settling Tax Debt and Managing Texas Ranch After His Death

James Van Der Beek, the actor known worldwide for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, confronted serious financial challenges in the years leading up to his death.

Alongside his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek, 44, the couple dealt with a federal tax lien issued in November 2021 for unpaid taxes dating back to 2017 and 2019, totaling $269,328.62, according to TMZ.

Despite these hurdles, the Van Der Beeks managed to resolve the matter, paying off the debt and having the lien lifted in April 2022.

Weeks later, the couple invested in a $4.76 million Texas ranch, securing a new chapter for their family before James passed away on February 11 at age 48, following a two-year battle with colorectal cancer.

GoFundMe Effort Supports Family After Actor’s Death

Following Van Der Beek’s death, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Kimberly and their six children, who face an uncertain financial future.

The page explains that the costs of James’s medical care left the family depleted, despite the couple’s efforts to stay afloat.

As of Monday, the GoFundMe has raised over $2.6 million, underscoring the generosity of fans, friends, and the wider community.

Donations are aimed at covering living expenses, bills, and ensuring the children’s education continues uninterrupted.

The Texas Ranch Purchase and Family Move

Just a month before his passing, Van Der Beek finalized the purchase of a 36-acre ranch in Spicewood, Texas, for $4.76 million.

The property, previously rented by the family, includes a main house, multiple cabins, a pool, and riverfront views.

The move to Texas in 2020, from Los Angeles, was motivated by the family’s desire to be closer to nature.

In a 2021 interview with Austin Life, Van Der Beek emphasized the importance of giving his six children space to grow and explore in a natural environment.

The couple shares six children: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 4.

Their relocation also followed a period of significant emotional loss, including the death of James’s mother in 2020 and Kimberly’s five miscarriages prior to starting their family.

Van Der Beek’s Efforts to Fund Cancer Treatments

In addition to managing family and property matters, Van Der Beek took creative steps to cover the costs of his cancer treatment after his 2024 stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis.

He auctioned cherished Dawson’s Creek memorabilia and sold Varsity Blues merchandise, using the proceeds to help fund both his and other patients’ medical needs.

He openly acknowledged the nostalgia attached to these items but framed the sales as necessary given the unexpected turns in his life.

Career Highlights and Legacy

Van Der Beek shot to fame at age 20 in the 1990s as Dawson Leery, appearing on Dawson’s Creek for six seasons from 1998 to 2003.

The show not only cemented his status as a teen heartthrob but also launched the careers of Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, and Joshua Jackson.

Beyond acting, James Van Der Beek embraced family life and philanthropy, combining his public platform with hands-on efforts to secure a stable, nature-centered upbringing for his children.

What’s Next?

Kimberly Van Der Beek and the children are now focused on continuing life in Texas, maintaining the family home, and preserving stability for the kids’ education.

Friends and the community continue to support them financially and emotionally, ensuring the family can navigate this challenging period.

With the Texas ranch secured and the GoFundMe providing relief, the Van Der Beeks will likely focus on balancing normal life with honoring James’s legacy, including his contributions to entertainment and charitable efforts.

Summary

James Van Der Beek faced significant tax challenges in 2018 and 2019 but resolved them before passing away at 48 after a two-year battle with colorectal cancer.

He and his wife Kimberly purchased a $4.76 million Texas ranch shortly before his death, aiming to provide a nature-centered upbringing for their six children.

A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $2.6 million to support the family’s living expenses and education.

Known for his role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek also auctioned personal memorabilia to fund his cancer treatments.

The family is now focused on stability and honoring his legacy in Spicewood, Texas.