Forrest Gump star Gary Sinise’s son McCanna Anthony ‘Mac’ Sinise has died after a long battle with cancer the actor confirmed. He was 33.
The Of Mice and Men star announced the devastating news in a personal statement posted to the Gary Sinise Foundation website.
Gary revealed his son died on January 5 from a rare spinal cancer called Chordoma, which he was diagnosed with in 2018.
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“Like any family experiencing such a loss, we are heartbroken and have been managing as best we can,” the emotional letter read.
“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,” he continued.
The 68-year-old is married to Moira Harris, who he shares children ‘Mac’, Sophie and Ella with. Gary revealed his son’s diagnosis came just months after his wife was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer, which she has since gone into remission.
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According to the actor, his son underwent five spinal surgeries between 2018 and 2020 while battling a rare cancer he claimed only affects 300 people in the US each year.
“Our family’s cancer fight lasted for 5 ½ years, and it became more and more challenging as time went on,” the tribute continued.
“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,” the actor added.
“He fought an uphill battle against a cancer that has no cure, but he never quit trying.”
“Mac loved movies, and we always told him he reminded us of the soldier at the end of the extraordinary film 1917, running through the battlefield, bombs going off all around him, knocking him down one after the other, yet he keeps getting back up, refusing to quit and keeps running forward.”
The CSI: NY star added he is “so blessed, fortunate, and proud” to be Mac’s father.
Mac worked alongside his father for the Gary Sinise Foundation, which is a charity providing support for veterans. He was also a musician and drummer
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The actor revealed his son had been working on an album, Mac Sinise: Resurrection and Revival, which went to press the week he died.
In his statement, Gary called the album an “inspiring parting gift to us.”
“Resurrection & Revival will live on. And so will you. In our hearts forever.”
The Apollo 13 actor shared a link to his tribute in an Instagram post, which was inundated with condolences from fans and stars.
“We are so sorry Gary. You & your family are deeply loved by so many. We are praying for all of you. Love you so very much,” Baywatch actress Angie Harmon wrote.
“Prayers of strength and peace,” RoboCop actor Robert Burke said.