Forrest Gump star Gary Sinise has shared the devastating news of his son’s passing, posting a heartfelt announcement on both the Gary Sinise Foundation website and his Instagram page. He revealed that his 33-year-old son, McCanna Anthony “Mac” Sinise, had died after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Mac was diagnosed with a rare spinal cancer known as chordoma on August 8, 2018—less than three months after his mother, Moira, was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. While Moira ultimately responded well to treatment, Mac’s illness progressed, steadily stripping him of his mobility over the years.
Gary expresses profound grief over the loss of his son
“Like any family experiencing such a loss, we are heartbroken and have been managing as best we can. As parents, it is so difficult losing a child. My heart goes out to all who have suffered a similar loss, and to anyone who has lost a loved one. We’ve all experienced it in some way. Over the years I have met so many families of our fallen heroes. It’s heartbreaking, and it’s just damn hard,” the grieving actor wrote.
“Our family’s cancer fight lasted for 5½ years, and it became more and more challenging as time went on. While our hearts ache at missing him, we are comforted in knowing that Mac is no longer struggling, and inspired and moved by how he managed it. He fought an uphill battle against a cancer that has no cure, but he never quit trying.”
A wave of support from Hollywood
Friends and colleagues flooded social media with messages of condolence.
“We are so sorry Gary. You & your family are deeply loved by so many,” Angie Harmon shared. “We are all praying for you. Love you so very much.”
Alyssa Milano added: “I’m so sorry, Gary. I’m praying for your family. And sending you love and strength.”
A life driven by purpose and passion
Mac lived a fulfilled and dedicated life. He joined the Gary Sinise Foundation as an assistant manager of education and outreach and pursued his passion for music through every stage of his illness. He performed as a drummer alongside his father in the Lt. Dan Band.
In the years following his diagnosis, Mac endured five spinal surgeries and was ultimately paralyzed from the waist down. Yet he continued creating music, refusing to let his condition silence him. Before his passing, he completed work on his album Resurrection & Revival.
A graduate of the University of Southern California, Mac studied songwriting and composition, carrying that craft forward until the end.
Gary shared that the family is overseeing the release of Mac’s album, Mac Sinise: Resurrection & Revival, and ensuring it is pressed on vinyl in his honor.
Mac was laid to rest on January 5.
Our deepest condolences go out to Gary Sinise and his family as they navigate this profound and painful loss. Our thoughts are with them during this time of grief.
