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James Van Der Beek’s death was met with sorrow and touching tributes. That was expected. The actor, who spent decades in front of the camera, was deeply beloved. What was a bit unexpected was the controversy that is now swirling around the actor’s passing from colon cancer. While Hollywood has rallied around Van Der Beek’s widow and children, fans are feeling a bit put out. Millions have been raised for the actor’s family, though some onlookers aren’t happy with how Kimberly Van Der Beek and James’ friends are responding to questions about the family’s finances. This is everything we know about James Van Der Beek’s money troubles, his expensive property, and the GoFundMe campaign that has drawn millions of dollars and plenty of criticism.  

Jams Van Der Beek shared financial concerns before purchasing a $5 million property before his death

James Van Der Beek spent years acting in high-profile shows and projects. He made millions during his career. Still, the 48-year-old actor insisted he was having a hard time making ends meet by the end of his life. He sold memorabilia, asked for help raising funds for his cancer treatment, and even offered signed jerseys to fans in an attempt to financially stabilize his family. His former costars and friends jumped in to help.

There was much chatter about his finances during his last year. Van Der Beek appeared transparent about the mounting costs of cancer treatment. Still, more was going on behind the scenes. Van Der Beek reportedly purchased the expansive Texas ranch his family calls home just weeks before his death. TMZ was the first to report that Van Der Beek shelled out nearly $5 million through an LLC for the property. The actor, his wife, and his six children began renting the property in 2020. Friends reportedly helped with the purchase. The late actor and his wife also own a home in Los Angeles, according to sources.

The news that Van Der Beek had purchased the ranch, despite claiming to be out of funds, was met with even more confusion when a GoFundMe campaign to support his wife and children appeared. It is at the heart of the controversy.

A GoFundMe campaign and an email have sparked controversy

​Questions about the actor’s finances and high-end assets probably wouldn’t have popped up had James Van Der Beek’s family and friends not launched a GoFundMe campaign within hours of his death. Those close to the actor promoted the campaign, asking for donations to help Kimberly Van Der Beek and the six children she shares with the late actor as they navigate their grief journey. Several A-listers made very generous donations. It didn’t take long for the campaign to go viral.

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Inside James Van Der Beek’s Texas Ranch Where He Lived With Wife Kimberly and Their 6 Kids

The campaign has plenty of support, but has also drawn ire. Critics point out that Kimberly has several expensive properties that could absolutely be liquidated to make ends meet. The most vocal critics on social media say the campaign and the amount of money pledged are tone-deaf. They note that the amount raised far exceeds the amount one might need to meet basic needs in the weeks, months, and even years to come.

While the GoFundMe campaign has drawn plenty of criticism, it isn’t the only fundraising practice raising eyebrows. Shortly after Van Der Beek’s death, fans who had purchased signed jerseys received an email stating that their orders would not be fulfilled. Van Der Beek’s condition worsened rapidly, making it impossible for him to sign the jerseys purchased, it seems. While the email claimed buyers could request a refund, a paragraph noted that a refund would take proceeds away from the family. The email was shared on Reddit. Users were quick to express disgust for the guilt tactics employed to prevent people from requesting refunds. Van Der Beek’s estate has not commented on the email. Kimberly Van Der Beek has not commented on any of the criticism.

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