Canadian actor Stewart McLean, known for his roles in Virgin River, Arrow, and several other television dramas, has been found dead as authorities continue to investigate the case as a homicide.
According to Canada’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), McLean’s remains were discovered in the Lions Bay area of British Columbia on Friday, May 22. The announcement came just one day after investigators revealed that the missing actor was believed to be the victim of foul play.
McLean, 45, was last seen on May 15 at his home in Lions Bay. Three days later, on May 18, the Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police received a missing persons report and launched a search effort.
In a statement, IHIT spokesperson Cpl. Esther Tupper said investigators are continuing to gather evidence, examine CCTV footage, and speak with witnesses in order to piece together McLean’s movements before his disappearance.
“Investigators are following every possible lead as we work to provide answers for Mr. McLean’s family and loved ones,” Tupper said.
Authorities also noted that police agencies had been actively searching for McLean since the investigation began and believe the incident to be isolated.
Following the tragic news, Lucas Talent Inc. confirmed McLean’s death in an emotional statement shared by talent agent Jodi Caplan on Facebook.
“It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved client, Stew McLean,” the statement read. Caplan, who worked with the actor for more than a decade, described him as dedicated, professional, and “endlessly funny.”
She added that many casting directors and industry colleagues had reached out to express condolences, remembering McLean as a kind and talented person who would be deeply missed.
Over the years, McLean appeared in several popular television series, including Virgin River, Murder in a Small Town, Happy Face, and Arrow.
Police are asking anyone with information related to McLean’s disappearance or death to contact the IHIT information line or email investigators directly.