The entertainment world mourns the loss of actor and social media personality Bret Shuford, who passed away at the age of 46.
Shuford succumbed to a rare form of cancer on Saturday morning, as confirmed by a heartfelt announcement from his husband Stephen on their shared Instagram account. This past summer, Shuford was diagnosed with Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and T-Cell Lymphoma, both of which are rare diseases that severely compromise the immune system.
“With deep sorrow, we announce that this morning, we bid farewell to the most incredible man, husband, and father one could hope for,” Stephen’s post stated. “Bret Hanna-Shuford departed this world serenely, enveloped by his family’s love. Our hearts are shattered, yet we are determined to keep making him proud…”
The couple’s Instagram account, Broadway Husbands, showcases their journey as actors and parents to their three-year-old son, Maverick, attracting over 250,000 followers.
A GoFundMe page was set up on August 29, 2025, to assist with Shuford’s medical expenses as he battled his illness.
Shuford was renowned for his roles in several Broadway shows, most notably in Wicked from 2019 to 2020. His other notable stage appearances include Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
His talents also extended to television, where he played minor roles in popular series such as Only Murders in the Building, The Good Fight, and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Additionally, video game enthusiasts will recognize his voice in Red Dead Redemption 2 during encounters with the Laramie gang.
Despite his health challenges, Shuford maintained a positive outlook. His last update to his followers was this past Christmas. “Merry Christmas to everyone! We’re immensely thankful for your support and love! We look forward to the new year and hopefully, meeting you soon,” he expressed. “Sending love!”
Hi, I’m Emily, a passionate and dedicated member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a keen eye for detail and a love for writing, I ensure that the latest celebrity news, major economic trends, and helpful tips for your home are presented in the most engaging and informative way possible. Fun fact: During a particularly exciting news story, I once managed to finish an article in record time, fueled solely by copious amounts of coffee and pure adrenaline!
