Hope Street star Finnian Garbutt has said that he is entering the “last stages” of life after undergoing recent skin cancer tests.
The 28-year-old actor plays police constable Ryan Power in the BBC One Northern Irish drama.
Garbutt was diagnosed with skin cancer four years ago, but posted on social media on Monday (2 March) to say that it had “progressed rapidly” in his body.
Sharing a lengthy statement on social media, the actor said he underwent tests after experiencing pain in his back and hip, which found that the cancer had spread.
“I am now entering the last stages of my life,” he wrote. “I’m putting this out there as it is really difficult to tell people individually and I hope now it’s in the open then I can enjoy the time with my amazing family and friends.
“Since being diagnosed four years ago I have achieved so many of my life goals – 30 episodes in a TV show, being the lead in a movie (that should be out soon), buying my own house, marrying my best friend and becoming a father to the most incredible baby girl who never fails to make me smile.”
Garbutt, who shares 18-month old daughter Saoirse with wife Louise, ended the post by thanking those who have supported him and his family over the years. “If anyone wants to meet up for a pint, coffee or general bit of craic please reach out and we can try and make it work,” he added.
Several of his colleagues and fellow actors responded with supportive messages. Ridley star Bronagh Waugh called Garbutt a “breath of fresh air” and the “kindest human and altogether amazing soul”.
“What a legacy & imprint you have left on this World,” she added. “We will speak your name Legend often & into the world so that your girls & all who come after you, know what an impact you had on us all. Sending you strength, love, pints & hugs brother.”
House of Guinness actor Anthony Boyle also commented: “What an achievement what an impressive impactive indent in the world. Would love to see you for a pint. God bless ye bror x.”
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Garbutt’s Hope Street co-star Ciarán McMenamin said: “If my daughter grows up half as proud of me, as your daughter is going to be of you, I will have done something very right.”
A spokesperson for the BBC and production company Long Story TV told The Independent: “Finnian has been such an important part of Hope Street’s success. He is very much in our thoughts.”
Garbutt was diagnosed with Stage 3 skin cancer at the age of 25 after discovering a lump behind his ear. In February 2022, he underwent 12 hours of surgery to have 75 lymph nodes removed from his neck and face.
However, in August 2024, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 melanoma.
Garbutt began his acting career in 2020, landing a one-off role in BBC soap Casualty. He went on to star in a short film before he was cast as PC Ryan Power in Hope Street. He appeared in 31 episodes of the drama from 2023 until last year.
He also stars in upcoming film Housejackers – a comedy drama set in Belfast.
