Finnian Garbutt, the beloved Hope Street actor, has tragically passed away at the age of 28, just a month after sharing the heartbreaking news of his terminal cancer diagnosis. The actor’s passing comes after a valiant and courageous fight against Stage IV melanoma, a battle that captured the hearts of fans and loved ones alike.
A Peaceful Passing at Home
Finnian’s family announced his death on Instagram, sharing that he passed peacefully at home, as he had wished, surrounded by his loved ones. The post read:
“He passed peacefully at home, as he wished, surrounded by his family. We want to thank everyone for their support, their kind words, and for being with us during this really difficult time.”
The family also expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of support and donations to the GoFundMe page they had set up, which provided peace of mind during Finnian’s final days.
They concluded the post with:
“We will always love and miss you, Finn. You were the greatest husband, father, son, brother, and friend we could ever ask for, and knowing that you’re no longer in pain gives us all comfort, despite our own immense pain at losing you. We will soon be announcing details of his funeral. In the meantime, we ask that our family’s privacy be respected at this really difficult time.”
A Promising Career Cut Short
Finnian Garbutt was best known for his role as Ryan Power in the popular Northern Irish police drama Hope Street, a role he began in 2023. Garbutt’s portrayal of the new police constable brought a fresh, dynamic energy to the show. His dedication to the craft and passion for his role resonated deeply with audiences.
Before landing his major role in Hope Street, Finnian had also appeared in the film Housejackers and had a guest role in Casualty. His acting career, while still in its early stages, was promising, and many fans and colleagues mourn the loss of such a talented young actor.
A Long Battle with Cancer
Finnian’s battle with cancer began five years ago when he was diagnosed with Stage 3 malignant melanoma after noticing a mole on his scalp. After undergoing surgery to remove the cancer, Garbutt’s cancer was thought to be in remission. However, in August 2024, Finnian received the devastating news that the melanoma had progressed to Stage IV, just weeks before the birth of his daughter, Saoirse.
In a poignant message shared on social media, Finnian wrote:
“I have every trust in my oncology team and the groundbreaking treatment options available with the NHS. Check your skin, if something seems wrong then get it checked. Don’t take no for an answer.”
Despite the aggressive progression of his illness, Finnian remained positive and focused on spending quality time with his family. He shared the joy of expecting his daughter with wife Louise Agnew, and expressed his determination to stay strong for his family, stating, “Nothing is going to stop our family from being happy.”
Legacy of Courage and Advocacy
Finnian’s openness about his diagnosis and battle with cancer served as a powerful platform for awareness. He used his personal struggle to encourage others to be proactive about their health, especially when it came to checking for symptoms of melanoma.
He also shared the emotional journey on social media, reflecting on the milestones he had achieved despite his illness. Finnian’s message in February 2026, when he announced that the cancer had worsened, was a heartfelt testament to his resilience:
“Hi all, Over the last month or so, I’ve been having quite a bit of pain in my back and hip… My cancer team admitted me the other day for observations and to do a few scans. Unfortunately, the scans have shown that the cancer has progressed rapidly in my body, and I am now entering the last stages of my life…”
Finnian’s vulnerability in sharing this news allowed his fans to walk alongside him in his final months, offering him and his family their support during a truly difficult time.
Final Moments and Family Support
Throughout his illness, Finnian was supported by his wife, Louise, and their daughter, Saoirse. The family’s strength and love for each other were evident in their messages of gratitude during his passing.
In an earlier post, Finnian shared:
“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.”
Finnian’s ability to achieve so much despite his health struggles serves as a testament to his perseverance and the love he had for his family. His passing has left an irreplaceable hole in the hearts of those who knew him.
A Final Goodbye
Fans and colleagues of Finnian Garbutt are heartbroken over the untimely loss of a bright talent. His legacy will live on through his work in Hope Street and his advocacy for melanoma awareness. The actor’s unwavering courage in the face of terminal illness has inspired many and left an indelible mark on all who followed his journey.
As Finnian Garbutt is laid to rest, his family, friends, and fans will continue to remember him as a devoted husband, father, and friend, whose life, though tragically short, was filled with love, laughter, and an incredible passion for his craft.
Rest in peace, Finnian. You will be deeply missed.
