THE FAMILY OF THE LATE “DAWSON’S CREEK” STAR JAMES VAN DER BEEK IS FACING THE POSSIBILITY OF LOSING THEIR HOME AFTER EXHAUSTING THEIR SAVINGS DURING HIS CANCER BATTLE, ACCORDING TO AN ONLINE FUNDRAISER.(PHOTO).

 James Van Der Beek’s family could lose home due to medical debt, fundraiser claims

The family of the late “Dawson’s Creek” star James Van Der Beek is facing the possibility of losing their home after exhausting their savings during his cancer battle, according to an online fundraiser.

“The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds,” the fundraiser stated. “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.”

Last November, Van Der Beek auctioned off memorabilia from “Dawson’s Creek” and “Varsity Blues” to help cover medical expenses. Items included the necklace his character Dawson gave Joey for prom, valued between $26,400 and $52,800, and his outfit from the 1998 “Dawson’s Creek” pilot, expected to sell for nearly $4,000.

The fundraiser quickly reached its $1.5 million goal within 24 hours of Van Der Beek’s death being announced. High-profile donors included “Wicked” director Jon M. Chu and talent manager Guy Oseary, each giving $10,000, the Marla Maples Foundation with a $5,000 contribution, and actress Zoe Saldaña, who committed to $2,500 monthly.

Medical debt is a major issue in the United States, where nearly half of adults carry some form of it. Unlike most developed nations with universal health care, Americans face a high risk of financial strain from medical costs—even well-known figures like Van Der Beek’s family.

For many ordinary families, the consequences can be severe. A 2022 survey found that nearly one in five adults with medical debt believes they will never fully pay it off. Many report cutting back on household spending, using up savings, skipping other bills, delaying college or home purchases, or changing their housing situation to cope with the debt.