James Van Der Beek bought a Texas ranch for $4.76 million one month before he died on February 11 at age 48.
And now, a representative for the late actor has revealed the purchase was made possible with assistance from friends.
‘James secured down payment for the Texas ranch for the family with the help of friends through a trust so they could shift from rent to mortgage,’ the rep told People magazine.
In the wake of his death from colorectal cancer earlier this week, family friends set up a GoFundMe account for his widow Kimberly and their six kids.
After initially posting a $500,00 goal, the page has surpassed $2.5 million through more than 48,000 donations as of Saturday.
A description on the site reads: ‘In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future.’
A representative for James Van Der Beek has revealed the Texas ranch the actor bought one month before his death was made possible with help from friends; pictured in May 2025
Van Der Beek and his wife shared daughters Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, nine, and Gwendolyn, seven, as well as sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, four
Van Der Beek and his wife shared daughters Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, nine, and Gwendolyn, seven, as well as sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, four.
The former Dawson’s Creek star and Kimberly relocated their family to Spicewood, Texas from Los Angeles in 2020.
The couple, who wed in 2010, opted to lease the residence in order to try out the new area before committing to it.
Property records reviewed by Realtor.com show they purchased the sprawling 36-acre home in an off-market deal on January 9.
The Van Der Beeks used an LLC managed by a California attorney, per the outlet.
The GoFundMe page details: ‘The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. 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 message continues: ‘The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.
‘Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them.’
The former Dawson’s Creek star and Kimberly relocated their family to Spicewood, Texas from Los Angeles in 2020
Van Der Beek pictured at his Texas ranch with journalist Craig Melvin in 2025
Van Der Beek’s close friend, actor Alfonso Ribeiro, paid tribute to him on social media
Actor Alfonso Ribeiro paid tribute to Van Der Beek on social media, sharing photos from his visit to his home in Texas.
Ribeiro shared that he was able to spend time with the late star shortly before he passed.
‘I’m so broken right now with the passing of my friend @vanderjames today. He was my true friend, brother and life guide. I was with him through this horrible journey to beat cancer.
‘His family and friends went on this roller coaster ride – the highs when it looked like he had it beat to the breaking lows of it coming back,’ he wrote in a caption.
Ribeiro is godfather to Van Der Beek’s daughter Gwendolyn.
He wrote: ‘I’ve learned so much from James. He and @vanderkimberly changed my life. I will forever be in debt for all they’ve given me and my family.
‘He will live forever in my heart. I will always be there for their children. I will always hold my role as Gwen’s Goddie daddy as one of the most important roles of my life.
‘I love you James and know I have a guardian angel watching over me. Being able to say goodbye this weekend will always live with me. RIP my brother. RIP.’
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