Camilla Jessen
Wicked star Bret Hanna-Shuford dies at 46.
Bret Hanna-Shuford, known for his roles in Wicked and other major Broadway productions, has died at the age of 46 after a battle with a rare and aggressive illness.
Hanna-Shuford died on Saturday, January 3.
His husband, Stephen Hanna-Shuford, announced the news in a post that quickly drew messages from fans and fellow performers.
“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,” he wrote.
“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…”
A life on Broadway
Hanna-Shuford built a career on some of Broadway’s biggest stages. According to reporting and tributes shared online, his credits included Wicked, Beauty and the Beast and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Beyond the stage, he was also known online through the Instagram account Broadway Husbands, which he ran with his husband. The page, followed by more than 255,000 people, documented their family life and careers and became a source of connection with fans.
The couple share a three-year-old son, Maverick.
Rare diagnosis and final messages
According to details shared on a GoFundMe page launched in August 2025, Hanna-Shuford was diagnosed with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and T-cell lymphoma, rare conditions that severely affect the immune system.
“This diagnosis has required Bret to put many dreams on hold,” the fundraiser stated, including stepping away from graduate studies and settling into a new home in Orlando.
“What should have been a season of new beginnings has instead turned into an unexpected battle for health and stability.”
Despite his illness, Hanna-Shuford continued updating supporters.
On Christmas Day, he posted from his hospital bed: “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!”
Sources: Social media statements, GoFundMe, Newsner
