Missing ‘Virgin River’ Actor Found Dead as Homicide Investigation Begins

Authorities in British Columbia have confirmed that the remains of actor Stewart McLean were found in the Lions Bay area, about a week after he was reported missing. The update was shared by Canada’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), which is now treating the case as a homicide.

McLean, 45, was last seen at his home in Lions Bay on Friday, May 15, 2026. A missing person report was filed with the Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police on Monday, May 18 after he had not been seen for several days.

According to IHIT, investigators are now working to build a detailed timeline of McLean’s final movements. In a statement shared through a media release, IHIT Cpl. Esther Tupper said, “As the investigation continues to unfold, homicide investigators are working to collect and analyze evidence, review CCTV footage and conduct interviews to build a timeline of Mr. McLean’s activities prior to May 15, 2026.”

She added that police are following multiple leads and working closely with partner agencies. The investigation, according to authorities, began immediately after McLean was reported missing, and has since shifted into a homicide case following new findings.

Officials have also stated that McLean’s disappearance appears to be an isolated incident, and there is currently no public indication of a broader threat connected to the case. However, police have not released further details about possible suspects or a motive.

News of McLean’s death was confirmed shortly after investigators announced they believed he had been the victim of a homicide. His remains were formally identified one day after that announcement.

McLean was known for his work in television, with credits including appearances in Virgin River, Arrow, Murder in a Small Town, and Happy Face. His work made him a familiar face in several popular TV productions filmed in Canada.

His talent agency, Lucas Talent Inc., confirmed his death in a public statement shared on Facebook. The message, written by his agent Jodi Caplan, described McLean as both professional and kind.

The statement read, “It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved client, Stew McLean. I was fortunate to have worked with Stew for more than 10 years.”

It continued, “He was always such a pleasure to deal with — dedicated, professional, eager, and endlessly funny. 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”

As the investigation continues, IHIT has not released further details about how McLean died. Authorities have said more information may be provided as evidence is reviewed and interviews continue.

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