JAMES Van Der Beek made ‘no money’ from his starring role in Dawson’s Creek due to a clause in his contract about reruns of the hit series.
Actor James passed away on Wednesday following a two year battle with colorectal cancer.
Friends then set up a GoFundMe to support his wife Kimberley and their six children, who are said to be at risk of losing their home due to the cost of James’s medical bills.
James shot to fame in 1998 as lead character Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek.
Despite the show’s huge popularity – which has continued since it ended in 2003 – he previously confessed he makes no money from reruns or streaming deals.
Speaking to Today in 2012, James explained: “There was no residual money.
“I was 20. It was a bad contract. I saw almost nothing from that.”
Following James’s heartbreaking death, friends were quick to jump into action to support his wife and their children Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, Gwendolyn, 7, and Jeremiah, 4.
A GoFundMe page was set up and donations have already surpassed $1 million.
The message on the account reads: “In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future.
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“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 support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.”
Following his diagnosis with cancer in 2023 James began working with Propstore to sell off his Dawson’s Creek memorabilia in order to cover his medical costs.