Netflix star Stewart McLean, known for Virgin River, has been found dead after going missing last week.

On Friday, Canada’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) confirmed that the 45-year-old actor’s remains had been discovered in the Lions Bay area.

McLean was last seen at his residence in the small residential community in British Columbia on Friday, May 15, about 30 minutes outside Squamish and 45 minutes from Vancouver.

A missing persons report was filed three days later, with McLean described by investigators as 5ft 10 in, 150 Ibs, with grey hair and blue eyes, as a search got underway.

Now, police are investigating a possible murder, with the Squamish Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) stating that they had transitioned the ongoing missing person investigation over to the homicide team.

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‘As the investigation continues to unfold, homicide investigators are working to collect and analyse evidence, review CCTV footage and conduct interviews to build a timeline of Mr McLean’s activities prior to May 15, 2026,’ IHIT said in a statement.


The actor went missing a week ago (Picture: Squamish RCMP)
‘We are pursuing all available leads as we work to find answers for the family, friends and loved ones of Mr McLean.’

His disappearance is believed to be an ‘isolated incident’.

Authorities are yet to confirm if there are any suspects or theories regarding what happened.

Upon issuing confirmation of McLean’s death, his talent agency paid tribute, calling him their ‘beloved client’ and expressing ‘great sadness’ at saying goodbye to him.

‘I was fortunate to have worked with Stew for more than 10 years,’ said agent Jodi Caplan in a statement on Facebook.

‘He was always such a pleasure to deal with — dedicated, professional, eager, and endlessly funny.


His talent agent penned an emotional statement (Picture: Facebook)
‘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’

Fans of his work have also sent their condolences to McLean’s family via social media, with @harry_brig writing on X: ‘A very sad and developing situation. Hoping the investigation brings clarity and answers for everyone involved, and condolences to those who knew and worked with him.’

@growviczol added: ‘praying for his family during this time’.

McLean had been working steadily as an actor since 2015, making his debut with an uncredited role in the student film Snow Falcon.

As well as Virgin River, which marked his final role in March this year, the Edmonton-born star was known for Arrow (2012), Beyond (2016), and Travelers (2016).

Additionally, he worked on short films, such as Buddy Cops (2015), Detective Williams (2016), Uniforms (2017), and Return to Sender (2018).

McLean was a producer, too, having worked on the TV series CLOUD Van-Demic! and Please Look Away Vol. 2.