economy
February 13, 2026
Steven Spielberg, Dawson Leery’s idol, donates $25,000 to James Van Der Beek fundraiser
Director revered by actor’s character in Dawson’s Creek is among film industry figures – also including Zoe Saldaña and John M Chu – to make large donation to family

TL;DR
- Steven Spielberg donated $25,000 to a crowdfunder for James Van Der Beek's family.
- Van Der Beek died this week after being diagnosed with cancer in 2023.
- Spielberg's character was idolized by Van Der Beek's character, Dawson Leery, in 'Dawson's Creek'.
- The fundraiser has surpassed $2 million.
- Other industry figures like Zoe Saldaña and Jon M Chu have also donated.
- Van Der Beek had previously auctioned memorabilia to help pay medical bills.
- Guardant Health donated $25,000, recognizing Van Der Beek as their first brand ambassador for a cancer screening test.
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