Broadway Husbands influencer and actor Bret Hanna-Shuford has died at 46 years old after being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
The beloved performer and social media personality fought bravely against two devastating illnesses that target the immune system, and passed away early this morning, his family confirmed.
His husband Stephen shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, telling fans: “It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that early this morning we said goodbye to the most amazing man, husband and Papa in the universe.”
The emotional post continued: “Our hearts are broken but we will continue to make him proud of us.”
Celebrated Family Life and Broadway Career
Hanna-Shuford and Stephen were parents to a three-year-old son, Maverick, and regularly chronicled their day-to-day moments on the “Broadway Husbands” Instagram page, which had amassed 255,000 followers.
Their family’s charm and openness earned them a devoted online community.
In addition to his influence online, Hanna-Shuford had a varied stage and screen career. He is noted for a role in the film Wolf of Wall Street, and his theater credits include performances in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Ragtime, Wicked, and The Little Mermaid.
Rare Illness Diagnoses That Changed Everything
Earlier this year, Hanna-Shuford received a dual diagnosis of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and T-Cell Lymphoma, both rare disorders that severely impact the immune system.
HLH causes the body’s immune response to go into overdrive and attack healthy cells. T-Cell Lymphoma is an aggressive cancer affecting white blood cells — the crucial defenders of the immune system.
A GoFundMe campaign launched in August sought support for Hanna-Shuford’s mounting medical needs. The fundraiser shared that the diagnosis forced him to set aside major life goals.
“This diagnosis has required Bret to put many dreams on hold, including stepping away from his graduate program at UCF, just as he and Stephen had begun settling into their new home in Orlando with their sweet son, Maverick.
"What should have been a season of new beginnings has instead turned into an unexpected battle for health and stability,” the page explained.
The Broadway community rallied around him, with stars including John Tartaglia and Douglas Sills reportedly donating to the campaign.
Honest Updates From the Hospital
Throughout his illness, Hanna-Shuford kept followers updated about his condition.
In October, he shared that he had spent three days unconscious in the ICU, revealing in a post: “I really want to go home, I really miss my son, a lot, and my husband. … But I’m sending so much love to you, because your love to me has been incredible.”
Even from his hospital bed, he reached out to fans around the holidays. On Christmas Day he posted: “Merry Christmas to all of you! We are so grateful for your love and support! Looking forward to a new year and hope to see you all soon.Sending love!”