Fundraisers for the families of Eric Dane and James Van Der Beek face backlash

[TaylorSwift 162,394]

Shortly after Dane’s death was announced, “Friends of the Dane Family” launched a GoFundMe appeal for actor’s daughters and wife Rebecca Gayheart. The unspecified group set an initial fundraising goal of $250,000 to “support his girls and their future needs” but after reaching its goal it has been upped to $500,000.

“Any contribution, no matter the size, will help provide stability during this incredibly difficult time and in the future for Eric’s wonderful daughters,” the crowdfunding campaign’s call to action concluded. 

Then came the backlash. “What a greedy effing family. Eric, I loved you, but man, I have lost all respect for your family,” one user wrote on the post asking for donations.

Criticism of the GoFundMe ricocheted beyond the 9k comments left underneath the Instagram post, and GoFundMe temporarily put the fundraiser on hold as it investigated its legitimacy.

Perhaps netizens would have been more forgiving if they hadn’t also been asked to donate to another late A-lister’s crowdfunding campaign a few days prior. Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek’s death this month, following a stage three colorectal cancer diagnosis, prompted an outpouring of support and outrage in equal measure.

“Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education,” a message written by verified GoFundMe organisers “Friends of the Van Der Beek family”

“Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives.”

More than 50k people – including Steven Spielberg, Zoe Saldaña – have donated $2.7 million to the crowdfunding campaign set up on behalf of hiswife and their 6 children.

Many, however, are asking why some of the world’s most famous faces ask humble laypeople to shell out to support their families.

Complicating matters when his posthumous GoFundMe was launched were reports that he sought expensive alternative therapies, which are dangerous when used instead of evidence-based, conventional medical treatments. Investigations from outlets including The Hollywood Reporter suggest Van Der Beek did receive traditional medical treatment.

There were also questions as to the fairness of asking people to help pay off the mortgage for his family’s 14.5-hectare ranch in Texas, worth $4.76 million, when many will struggle to afford a one-bedroom studio apartment. source

[garbage day 11,816]

Is this not what life insurance is for?

[SharkmanthaC 115,044]

20 minutes ago, vanna shintuyu said:

Is this not what life insurance is for?

You have to buy it. 

[SharkmanthaC 115,044]

This points to a bigger issue. American healthcare. Imagine if “rich” families go broke paying for healthcare for cancer and ALS, imagine what it does to a working class family in America. 

[Mr Ricky 9,089]

12 minutes ago, SharkmanthaC said:

This points to a bigger issue. American healthcare. Imagine if “rich” families go broke paying for healthcare for cancer and ALS, imagine what it does to a working class family in America. 

Then the working class won't even have a single chance, sad healthcare life there in the US  though.  

[Ashley 10,236]

35 minutes ago, SharkmanthaC said:

This points to a bigger issue. American healthcare. Imagine if “rich” families go broke paying for healthcare for cancer and ALS, imagine what it does to a working class family in America. 

This is true, but I have a hard time believing these families are truly broke, rather I think they want help to maintain their lifestyles. Eric Dane’s ex-wife has been dating the millionaire founder of Hard Rock Cafe for three years. Even though her children aren’t his I would imagine he would help out if she couldn’t afford to care for them.

[garbage day 11,816]

15 hours ago, SharkmanthaC said:

You have to buy it. 

Yes, that's how goods and services are usually obtained. Most parents in the US have life insurance.

[Jill 31,812]

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Edited February 24 by Jill