Hope Street Actor Finnian Garbutt Shares Health Update
Finnian Garbutt, an actor known for his role in the BBC Northern Ireland police drama Hope Street, has revealed that he is entering the "last stages" of his life following a rapid progression of skin cancer.
Garbutt was diagnosed with skin cancer four years ago. Recently, he posted on social media about his health condition, stating that scans have shown significant advancement of the disease.
He has portrayed police constable Ryan Power in Hope Street, a series that has aired five seasons and is filmed in Donaghadee, County Down.
In his social media statement, Garbutt explained the recent developments in his health:
"In the last month or so I have 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."
"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."
Reflecting on his life since diagnosis, Garbutt shared his achievements and personal milestones:
"Since being diagnosed four years ago, I had 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."
He also expressed gratitude to those who have supported him and his family over the years and extended an invitation to connect with friends and acquaintances:
"Thank you to all those people that have reached out over the years and supported me and my family."
"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."
Career Highlights and Tributes
A BBC spokesperson commented on Garbutt's contribution to Hope Street:
"Finnian has been such an important part of Hope Street's success. He is very much in our thoughts."
Garbutt graduated from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in July 2019. His previous roles include playing Benvolio in Romeo and Juliet at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast and appearing in the BBC hospital drama Casualty.
Additionally, he appeared as Raymond in the film Housejackers, which premiered at the Belfast Film Festival last year.
