Virgin River actor Stewart McLean has been found dead.
The discovery of McLean’s remains comes one day after the Royal Canadian Mounted Police announced the missing actor’s disappearance had become a potential homicide investigation. He was 45.
According to a press release shared with People by Canada’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on Friday, May 22, McLean’s remains were found in the Lions Bay area following his disappearance.
McClean’s death was confirmed by Lucas Talent Inc. via a statement shared by talent agent Jodi Caplan on Facebook on Friday.
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“It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved client, Stew McLean,” the statement read. “I was fortunate to have worked with Stew for more than 10 years.”
Caplan reflected on what a “great guy” McLean was, looking back on their working relationship fondly.
“He was always such a pleasure to deal with — dedicated, professional, eager, and endlessly funny,” the post continued. “Many casting directors have reached out to share their condolences with Stew’s family and with our agency, and every message says the same thing: what a truly great guy he was, and how deeply he will be missed. Rest in peace, Stew. xo”
Us Weekly has reached out to Canada’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) for comment.
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The Squamish RCMP received a missing person regarding McLean on Monday, May 18, after he was last seen on May 15 at his home in Lions Bay, British Columbia, Canada.
The RCMP first asked for public assistance in locating McLean on Tuesday, May 19, and the Lions Bays Search and Rescue led the initial search for him as a missing person.
The case was initially treated as a missing persons case. On Thursday, May 21, it was announced that the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team took over the search for McLean and authorities now believe he may be a homicide victim.
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“On May 20, IHIT deployed and assumed conduct of the investigation,” a press release shared on May 21 read. “Squamish RCMP continues to work closely with IHIT and the Integrated Forensic Identification Service (IFIS) to advance the investigation. Squamish RCMP initiated an investigation and, through investigative efforts, uncovered evidence that led investigators to believe Mr. McLean was victim of homicide.”
As well as Virgin River, McLean was known for roles in Murder in a Small Town, Happy Face, and Arrow.
Authorities are asking that anyone with information regarding McLean or the investigation call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp–grc.gc.ca.
