What's Happening?
Bret Hanna-Shuford, a former Broadway actor and social media influencer, has died at the age of 46. He passed away in Orlando after battling a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma and HLH. Hanna-Shuford was
known for his roles in Broadway productions such as 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'Wicked', as well as his performances on the Disney Cruise Line. He also appeared in television shows like 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit' and 'The Good Fight'. Alongside his husband, Stephen Hanna-Shuford, he was part of the social media duo 'Broadway Husbands', where they shared their lives as gay parents. The couple married in 2011 and welcomed their son, Maverick, in 2022. Bret was also working on a children's book titled 'Good Night, Break a Leg', set to be published in the summer.
Why It's Important?
Bret Hanna-Shuford's passing highlights the impact of rare diseases and the challenges faced by those in the performing arts community. His career and personal life were intertwined with his advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation and visibility, particularly through his social media presence. His death is a significant loss to the Broadway community and his followers, who admired his work and personal journey. The continuation of his legacy through his upcoming children's book reflects his commitment to storytelling and representation. His story also underscores the importance of awareness and research into rare diseases, which can have profound effects on individuals and their families.
