Tragic Death of Stewart McLean: Investigation Launched

Stewart McLean Found Deceased at 45

Stewart McLean, a 45-year-old actor known for his roles in Virgin River, Arrow, and The Irrational, was discovered dead in Canada a week after being reported missing. He was last seen at his residence in Lions Bay, British Columbia, on May 15. Following his disappearance on May 18, a search was initiated, with the Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police appealing to the public for assistance. However, on May 21, authorities announced that the case was being treated as a homicide investigation due to new evidence. The following day, they confirmed that McLean's remains had been located.

Investigation into Homicide Underway

As reported by Entertainment Weekly, the Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police expressed serious concern for McLean's well-being after he was reported missing. His case was subsequently handed over to Canada’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), which indicated on May 21 that they were treating it as a homicide case. Their statement highlighted that the Squamish RCMP had initiated an investigation that uncovered evidence suggesting McLean was a homicide victim. His remains were found on May 22 in Lions Bay, British Columbia. Cpl. Esther Tupper from IHIT mentioned that investigators were gathering and analyzing evidence, reviewing CCTV footage, and interviewing individuals to trace McLean's whereabouts before May 15, 2026, in hopes of providing answers to his family and friends.

Remembering Stewart McLean

McLean's talent agency paid tribute to him on Facebook, describing him as a "dedicated, professional, eager, and endlessly funny" individual. Casting directors expressed their condolences, emphasizing what a "truly great guy he was." The actor, who lived alone and never married, had been a prominent figure in the Vancouver film and television scene since 2015. In addition to his work on shows like Virgin River, Arrow, Supernatural, Siren, The Irrational, Happy Face, and Murder in a Small Town, McLean had around 36 acting credits and was involved in producing independent films in British Columbia. He recently appeared in a brief role in Season 7 of Virgin River, which premiered on March 12, 2026.