The Broadway community is in mourning after the loss of one of its brightest stars, Bret Hanna-Shuford. At just 46 years old, Bret passed away this Saturday after a courageous battle with two rare and aggressive forms of cancer: hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL). His death marks the end of a life full of passion, love, and an unrelenting commitment to his family, career, and fans.
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Bret, who was best known for his roles in Wicked, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid, brought a unique blend of talent, humor, and heart to the stage. But his legacy extends far beyond the theater, touching the lives of countless followers through his popular Instagram account, @BroadwayHusbands. The account, which he co-created with his husband, Stephen Hanna-Shuford, captured their journey together—documenting their marriage, parenthood, and the ups and downs of Broadway life. With 258k followers, @BroadwayHusbands became a place of light, humor, and authenticity in an often-curated world of social media.
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In a statement posted on the couple’s Instagram, Stephen shared the devastating news: “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. 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…”
Bret Hanna-Shuford’s Courageous Battle
Bret’s cancer diagnosis in the summer of 2025 came as a shock. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and PTCL are both rare, life-threatening conditions, and Bret’s immune system attacked his healthy tissue and organs in response. For months, he underwent intensive chemotherapy, all while keeping his spirits high and maintaining an unwavering connection with his fans. Even as he lay in his hospital bed, Bret was determined to send love to those who supported him. His last Christmas message read: “Merry Christmas to all of you. We are so grateful for your love and support! Looking forward to a new year and hope to see you all soon. Sending love!”
Bret’s resilience was matched only by the love he shared with Stephen and their three-year-old son, Maverick. The family’s journey to parenthood was chronicled on their Instagram account, from their suburban life in Houston to the arrival of Maverick via surrogate in 2022. It was clear that Bret and Stephen’s bond was unshakable, a love story that had begun in 2006 when they met in recovery in New York City. Their engagement and marriage in 2011 marked the beginning of their public journey together, which fans had the privilege of witnessing.
A Legacy of Love, Laughter, and Broadway Magic
Bret was more than just a performer. He was a husband, a father, a friend, and a beacon of strength. His Broadway career, which spanned multiple beloved productions such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Cirque du Soleil’s Paramour, showcased his incredible range as a performer. But his real impact came offstage—through his honesty, humor, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ families.
As we remember Bret, we also honor the love he so openly shared. Stephen, in a beautiful tribute, promised to continue making him proud. And for those of us lucky enough to follow Bret’s journey, we too will carry his legacy forward—with a smile, a tear, and an enduring love for the Broadway star who touched our hearts both on and off the stage.
Bret Hanna-Shuford’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his impact will resonate for years to come. Rest in peace, Bret. You may have left this world, but you will never leave our hearts.
To continue supporting Bret’s family during this time, a GoFundMe campaign is still active. If you’d like to contribute, please visit the link.
Source: New York Post