Stewart McLean, an actor best known for his role in the Netflix series 'Virgin River,' was found dead in British Columbia on Friday, May 22, with authorities investigating his death as a homicide. The 45-year-old was reported missing on May 18 after last being seen at his home in Lions Bay, British Columbia, prior to May 15. The case was transferred to Canada's Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on May 20.
Friend Expresses Shock
Jeff Seymour, a friend and acting coach of McLean, expressed deep confusion over the circumstances. 'Everybody loved this guy, it wasn't like he was in nefarious activities or, you know, kind of ran with another crowd,' Seymour said. He described McLean as a 'straight arrow' and 'meticulous,' noting that his failure to show up for filming was highly unusual. 'It doesn't make any sense how anyone could have gotten the drop on him,' Seymour added, emphasizing that McLean was a bit of a loner who spent much of his time reading at his home in Squamish.
Investigation Underway
IHIT is actively collecting and analyzing evidence, reviewing CCTV footage, and conducting interviews to establish a timeline of McLean's activities before his disappearance. The team aims to provide answers to his family and friends. Police are urging anyone with information regarding McLean's death to contact the IHIT information line.
McLean, also credited as Stew McLean, had a decade-long acting career with roles in shows such as 'Arrow' and 'Supernatural.' His sudden and violent death has left those who knew him in disbelief, as they struggle to understand how such a beloved individual could become the victim of a homicide.
