Hope Street Star Finnian Garbutt Announces He Is in 'Last Stages' of Life at Age 28
Finnian Garbutt, the 28-year-old actor known for his role as Police Constable Ryan Power in the BBC One Northern Irish drama Hope Street, has publicly disclosed that he is entering the "last stages" of his life following a recent and rapid progression of his skin cancer. In a deeply personal and emotional statement shared on social media on Monday, 2 March 2026, Garbutt revealed that tests conducted after he experienced pain in his back and hip confirmed the cancer had spread throughout his body.
A Heartbreaking Diagnosis and a Life Lived Fully
Garbutt was first diagnosed with skin cancer four years ago at the age of 25, after discovering a lump behind his ear. Initially, he underwent a gruelling 12-hour surgery in February 2022 to remove 75 lymph nodes from his neck and face. However, the cancer advanced to Stage 4 melanoma by August 2024. Despite this challenging journey, Garbutt reflected on the profound achievements he has accomplished since his initial diagnosis.
"Since being diagnosed four years ago I have achieved so many of my life goals," he wrote. These milestones include starring in 31 episodes of Hope Street from 2023 onwards, landing a lead role in the upcoming Belfast-set comedy-drama film Housejackers, purchasing his own home, marrying his best friend, and becoming a father to an 18-month-old daughter named Saoirse, whom he shares with his wife Louise.
An Outpouring of Support from Colleagues and Friends
The actor's candid announcement prompted an immediate and heartfelt wave of support from his peers in the entertainment industry. Fellow actors expressed their admiration and solidarity through social media messages.
- Bronagh Waugh, star of Ridley, praised Garbutt as a "breath of fresh air" and the "kindest human and altogether amazing soul," highlighting the lasting legacy he is leaving.
- Anthony Boyle from House of Guinness commended Garbutt's impressive impact on the world and extended an offer to meet for a pint.
- Ciarán McMenamin, Garbutt's co-star on Hope Street, shared a touching sentiment about the pride Garbutt's daughter will have in her father.
Focusing on Precious Time with Loved Ones
In his statement, Garbutt explained that he chose to share the news publicly to avoid the difficulty of informing people individually. His primary focus now is on cherishing the time he has left with his family and friends. "I hope now it's in the open then I can enjoy the time with my amazing family and friends," he expressed. He warmly invited those wishing to connect for a pint, coffee, or general conversation to reach out, emphasising a desire for normalcy and companionship during this period.
Garbutt's acting career began in 2020 with a one-off role in the BBC soap Casualty, followed by a short film, before he secured his breakout role in Hope Street. The Independent has reached out to both Garbutt and the BBC for further comment on this developing and deeply saddening situation.
