A County Down actor who gained recognition in BBC police drama Hope Street has revealed a devastating health update in his four-year battle with cancer. Finnian Garbutt, from Bangor, has established himself as a cherished presence on the Northern Ireland-produced drama, portraying PC Ryan Power on the programme since 2023.

The 28-year-old discovered a lump behind his ear at the end of 2020, but assumed it was an ingrown hair. When lockdown restrictions lifted, and he was able to visit his barber shop for a trim, he grew worried when his barber observed the lump had expanded "quite substantially." At 25, he was diagnosed with malignant melanoma and has utilised his platform to campaign and promote awareness amongst other young people.

Since his cancer journey commenced, he has wed his wife Louise, purchased a home, appeared in a BBC drama and welcomed the "most incredible" little girl, reports Belfast Live.

He posted on social media at the weekend to inform his friends and followers that his stage four cancer has "progressed rapidly".

He said: "Over the last month or so l've been having quite a bit of pain in my back and hip. My cancer team admitted me the other day for observations and to do a few scans.

"Unfortunately. the scans have shown that the cancer has progressed rapidly in my body and l am now entering the last stages of my life.

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"I'm putting this out there as it is really difficult to tell people individually and I hope now it's in the open then I can enjoy the time with my amazing family and friends.

"Since being diagnosed 4 years ago I have achieved so many of my life goals - 30 episodes in a TV show, being the lead in a movie (that should be out soon), buying my own house, marrying my best friend and becoming a father to the most incredible baby girl who never fails to make me smile.

"Thank you to all that have reached out over the years and supported me and my family.

"If anyone wants to meet up for a pint, coffee or general bit of craic please reach out and we can try and make it work."