Film & TV3 min(s) read
Published 12:00 23 May 2026 GMT
Actor Stewart McLean’s remains have been found after police launched a homicide investigation into his disappearance, according to authorities in British Columbia, Canada.
McLean, 45, who recently appeared in Netflix’s Virgin River, was last seen on May 15 at his home in Lions Bay before being reported missing to Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police on May 18. Investigators later uncovered evidence that led them to believe he “was the victim of a homicide.”
The actor, who was also known for roles in Supernatural and Arrow, had most recently appeared in a 2026 episode of Virgin River season seven, playing a character named Barfly. Authorities confirmed on May 21 that the case had been handed over to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) before McLean’s remains were discovered in the Lions Bay area the following day.
In a statement released by Squamish RCMP, investigators said: “Squamish RCMP initiated an investigation and, through investigative efforts, uncovered evidence that led investigators to believe Mr. McLean was the victim of a homicide.
“On May 20, IHIT (Integrated Homicide Investigation Team) deployed and assumed conduct of the investigation.”
Authorities also urged anyone with information to contact investigators, saying: “Squamish RCMP continues to work closely with IHIT and the Integrated Forensic Identification Service (IFIS) to advance the investigation.
“Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp–grc.gc.ca.”
Following news of McLean’s death, his sister Kat shared an emotional tribute on social media.
“It is with great sadness that we share the loss of our dear younger brother, Stew. He was genuine, honest, caring, and funny as heck. We will miss him incredibly.”
McLean’s talent agency, Lucas Talent Inc., also shared a statement remembering the actor.
Jodie Caplan wrote: “It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved client, Stew McLean. I was fortunate to have worked with Stew for more than 10 years.
“He was always such a pleasure to deal with, dedicated, professional, eager, and endlessly funny!”
Caplan added that casting directors had reached out with condolences, saying many had spoken about “what a truly great guy he was, and how deeply he will be missed.”
At the time of his disappearance, police said they were “very concerned for Stewart’s health and well-being.”
Lions Bay Search and Rescue initially led efforts to locate the actor before the case escalated into a homicide investigation. McLean, who was sometimes credited as Stew McLean, was described as 5ft 10, 150lbs, with gray hair and blue eyes.
Alongside Virgin River, his screen credits include Murder in a Small Town, The Killer Inside: The Ruth Finley Story, Arrow, and Supernatural.
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