Finnian Garbutt, an actor known for his role in the BBC police drama Hope Street, died peacefully at home, his family announced on Apr. 17.
Garbutt was a familiar face to viewers of Hope Street, having appeared in the last three series of the BBC Northern Ireland show filmed in Donaghadee, County Down. He had been diagnosed with skin cancer four years ago and spoke publicly about his diagnosis and treatment during that time.
In a statement posted on social media, Garbutt’s family said: “We will always love and miss you Finn.” The statement continued: “We’re absolutely heartbroken to announce that Finnian passed away after a sudden decline in his condition. You were the greatest husband, father, son, brother and friend we could ask for.” His family also thanked people for their support and kind words during this “really difficult time.” Garbutt married his partner Louise last year; they have a one-year-old daughter.
Hope Street co-star Cameron Cuffe said he had “brought joy to so many.” Eddie Doyle, Head of Content Commissioning at BBC Northern Ireland, said Garbutt was a “key part of Hope Street’s appeal” and added: “He brought so much to his character PC Ryan Power over the last three series. Our thoughts are with his wife and daughter, family and friends and the cast and crew of Hope Street at this time.”
Long Story TV described him as a “much-loved member of the Hope Street family,” stating: “He was an absolute joy to work with and he brought a great sense of fun to set everyday and was popular with audiences as PC Ryan Power. We send our deepest sympathies to his wife, his daughter and his wider family and friends. He will be missed in Port Devine and by all his friends at Long Story TV.”
Earlier this year in March, Garbutt shared that he was entering the final stages of life due to rapid progression of cancer: “Scans have shown that the cancer has progressed rapidly in my body,” he said. In 2023 he told the BBC how a mole discovered by his barber after lockdown turned out to be malignant melanoma.
Garbutt graduated from Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in July 2019. His acting credits include Benvolio in Romeo and Juliet at Belfast’s Lyric Theatre; appearances on BBC’s Casualty; Raymond in Housejackers which premiered at Belfast Film Festival last year; among other roles.
