Finnian Garbutt, who plays constable Ryan Power in the BBC Northern Ireland series Hope Street, stated on social media that recent scans show his skin cancer has advanced quickly to the final stages. The 28-year-old from Bangor in County Down experienced back and hip pain over the past month, leading to hospital admission for observation.

Garbutt received a malignant melanoma diagnosis four years ago. He had surgery the following year to remove the tumour. Hope Street, set in the fictional Port Devine and filmed in Donaghadee, County Down, has run for five seasons.

Since his diagnosis, Garbutt completed 30 episodes of a television series and took a lead role in an upcoming film. He purchased a home, married and became a father.

Garbutt plans to spend remaining time with family and friends. He thanked supporters and suggested people contact him to meet informally.

A BBC spokesperson noted Garbutt's key role in Hope Street and offered thoughts for him.