Broadway actor Bret Hanna-Shuford has died, aged 46. His husband, Stephen Hanna-Shuford, shared the news via his Instagram page.
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"It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that early this morning we said goodbye to the most amazing man, husband and Papa in the universe," Stephen wrote. "Bret Hanna-Shuford left this world peacefully with love surrounded by his family. Our hearts are broken but we will continue to make him proud of us..."
According to TMZ, Stephen also shared that Bret was battling Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis and T-Cell Lymphoma. Both are forms of rare cancer that attack the immune system.
Bret's on-stage career saw him take roles in some of the biggest shows on Broadway. Those included his debut show of Beauty And The Beast, along with The Little Mermaid, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and most notably Wicked.
Of course, Bret also appeared on other shows, as he became a recognizable member of Broadway.
Bret Hanna-Shuford's GoFundMe Nears Goal Amount
When diagnosed with both rare types of cancer, someone launched a GoFundMe page for Bret and Stephen. The goal amount on the page currently sits at $350,000. The page aims to help cover a wide range of costs, including medical bills and household expenses.
"Your donation—no matter the size—will help cover medical bills, household expenses, and the many unexpected costs that come with fighting such a rare illness," the message on the page reads. "Just as importantly, your kindness will give this family the chance to focus on what truly matters: Bret's healing and Maverick's bright, joy-filled childhood. Thank you for standing with Bret, Stephen, and Maverick during this journey."
In total, 4,000 people have made donations, and the page is closing in on the goal, with $323,500 already donated.
"The funds will be transferred directly to Stephen and Bret (Stephen will manage these funds, and is a co-organizer on this GoFundMe platform) - and the funds will be used to help with medical bills, child care, and to sustain their family as Bret will be unable to work for the foreseeable future," the message ends.
Bret is survived by his husband, Stephen, and his three-year-old son, Maverick.
