Actor Gary Sinise has announced the passing of his son, McCanna Anthony “Mac” Sinise, at 33. The grieving father revealed that Mac completed a music album during his final years and remained involved in the Gary Sinise Foundation’s work.
Messages of condolences poured in from colleagues and fans, including “CSI: NY” co-star Melina Kanakaredes and “Law & Order” actress Angie Harmon. Fans praised Mac’s musical talents and expressed sympathy for the family’s loss.
Gary Sinise Pays Tribute To His Son Mac After His Battle With Cancer
Gary’s son, Mac Sinise, sadly passed away on January 5 at the age of 33 following a long battle with the rare spinal cancer, chordoma.
Announcing the devastating news on the Gary Sinise Foundation’s website, the “Forrest Gump” actor, in a heartfelt message, expressed the profound grief of losing a child, writing: “Like any family experiencing such a loss, we are heartbroken and have been managing as best we can. As parents, it is so difficult to lose 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: “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 d— hard.”
Reflecting on their family’s journey through Mac’s illness, Gary emphasized his son’s resilience and determination in the face of a relentless disease, adding: “Our family’s cancer fight lasted for 5 ½ 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.”
In tribute to Mac’s love for movies, the 68-year-old likened him to the resilient soldier in the film “1917,” noting: “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.”
Gary Sinise Recounts His Family’s Battle With Cancer In 2018
In the heartfelt tribute to his son, Gary recounted the challenging year of 2018, marked by the dual hardships of his wife Moria’s battle with stage 3 breast cancer and his son Mac’s diagnosis with chordoma. While Moria eventually achieved remission after undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, Mac was not so lucky.
Diagnosed with chordoma, Mac underwent five spinal surgeries, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down.
The “CSI: NY” star detailed the surgeries Mac endured in September 2018 to remove a spinal tumor, followed by a subsequent operation in February 2019 to address an infection.
Despite his health struggles, Mac remained involved with the Gary Sinise Foundation and supported his father’s musical endeavors until his declining health forced him to step back.
Alongside his tribute, Gary shared a collection of photos capturing Mac’s passion for drumming, music production, and his contributions to the organization.
Gary Sinise Revealed His Late Son Mac Completed A Full Album
Gary also disclosed that Mac accomplished a remarkable feat before his passing by completing a full album titled “Resurrection and Revival.” He added that despite facing his health challenges, Mac taught himself to play the harmonica and collaborated with a friend to bring his musical vision to life.
By sharing their family’s private struggles, Gary said he aimed to honor Mac’s legacy and shed light on his contributions to the Gary Sinise Foundation.
He emphasized Mac’s enduring impact as a source of “incredible inspiration to those who knew and loved him.”
Gary continued: “He faced his battle with grace, courage, and love. Even with one setback after another, he never stopped living and learning, creating, and giving, and loving.”
In a touching conclusion, Gary bid farewell to his beloved son, writing: “Thank you, Mac. You did it. ‘Resurrection & Revival’ will live on. And so will you. In our hearts forever. We were blessed to have you in our lives as a son, brother, and friend…and we will miss you and love you for eternity. -Gary Sinise Proud father of Mac Sinise.”
Fans Send Condolences To Gary Sinise And His Family
Messages of condolences poured in from both colleagues and fans alike, with “CSI: NY” co-star Melina Kanakaredes expressing heartfelt sympathies: “Gary, our deepest sympathies. Sending you, Moira, and the girls so much love and light! May Mac’s memory be eternal.”
Angie Harmon from “Law & Order” also shared her condolences, commenting: “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.”
A fan spoke about Mac’s work, noting: “The video of his composition…it is a stunning piece of work! The pride and admiration on your face as his father. My heart goes out to all of you grieving the loss of your beloved Mac. I’m so very sorry.”
Another reflected on Mac’s musical talents, writing: “The video of his composition…it is a stunning piece of work! The pride and admiration on your face as his father. My heart goes out to all of you grieving the loss of your beloved Mac. I’m so very sorry.”
Rest in peace, Mac Sinise.