James Van Der Beek, known for his role in the series Dawson’s Creek, faced a significant tax debt years ago, as reported by TMZ.
Along with his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, the actor was affected by a lien imposed in November 2021 for unpaid taxes corresponding to the years 2018 and 2019.
According to records, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) determined that the couple owed $95,438.31 for the 2017 tax year and $173,890.31 in 2019, for a total of $269,328.62.
Subsequently, James and Kimberly made the payment of the debt and the lien was lifted in April 2022.
In 2024, James Van Der Beek revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer. During that year, he commented that he maintained a positive attitude while facing treatment.
In the weeks before his death, the family purchased a property in Texas for $4 million, located on a 34-acre plot of land.Before the purchase, the family rented the same property.
According to representatives of the actor, the acquisition of the property was possible thanks to the support of friends who helped with the initial payment.
On February 11, 2026, James Van Der Beek passed away after his battle with cancer.Following her death, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist Kimberly and her children with immediate expenses.The initiative had raised more than $2 million as of the following Monday.
According to the description published on the platform, the costs associated with medical care and prolonged cancer treatment directly impacted the financial situation of the family group.
The text indicates that, after the death, Kimberly and her children face a scenario of economic uncertainty.
In the same publication it is indicated that the family seeks to remain in their current home and guarantee the educational continuity of the children, with the aim of maintaining a certain stability in the midst of the process they are going through.
The message highlights that the support of friends, family and the community in general can help meet immediate expenses and reorganize the domestic economy.
Van Der Beek’s career includes playing Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, a series that marked several generations in the 90s and early 2000s.
Throughout his career, the actor participated in different film and television productions, maintaining an active profile in the media and social networks.
During the last few years, James Van Der Beek and his family had moved to Texas, where they sought to combine family life with the actor’s professional work.The purchase of the residence coincided with a period in which the family was looking for stability and space after having rented the property for a time.
In different interviews he highlighted his wife’s role during the process.In December 2025 he stated: “I would not be alive if it were not for my wife. She assumed the role of caregiver, nurse and head of the home.”
During his public appearances, James Van Der Beek explained that living with cancer changed his way of understanding everyday life.He noted that he learned to pay more attention to his diet and what he put into his body.
