Gary Sinise, the beloved actor best known for his role as Lt. Dan in Forrest Gump, has shared the devastating news of his son’s passing.
In a heartfelt message posted on both the Gary Sinise Foundation website and his personal Instagram account, Sinise revealed that his son, McCanna Anthony “Mac” Sinise, passed away at the age of 33 after a long and difficult battle with cancer.
Mac was diagnosed on August 8, 2018, with a rare and aggressive form of cancer called Chordoma, a type of tumor that occurs in the bones of the spine and skull base.
His diagnosis came just three months after his mother, Moira Sinise, was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer.
While Moira’s treatment was ultimately successful, Mac’s journey proved to be far more challenging and tragic.
Over the course of five and a half years, Mac endured multiple surgeries and medical treatments in his fight against the disease. Sadly, the cancer continued to progress, gradually robbing him of his mobility. Despite undergoing five spinal surgeries, Mac eventually became paralyzed from the waist down. However, his physical limitations never deterred him from living his life with purpose and passion.
Gary Sinise expressed his profound grief in his public statement, 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 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.”
He continued by sharing how deeply moved he was by Mac’s strength and determination:
“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. He fought an uphill battle against a cancer that has no cure, but he never quit trying.”
Throughout his illness, Mac remained active and committed to the things he loved. He served as an assistant manager of education and outreach at the Gary Sinise Foundation, contributing to the foundation’s mission of supporting veterans, first responders, and their families. He also had a lifelong love for music and was a talented drummer, performing alongside his father in the Lt. Dan Band.
Mac studied songwriting and composition at the University of Southern California (USC), where he graduated with a degree in music. Even in the most difficult stages of his illness, he continued to create. Just before his passing, he completed work on a music album titled “Resurrection & Revival”, which reflects his strength, creativity, and enduring spirit.
Gary shared that the family is ensuring the album will be released and pressed on vinyl to honor Mac’s legacy and his love for music. The album stands as a final artistic statement from a young man who lived with passion, resilience, and dignity.
Mac Sinise was laid to rest on January 5, surrounded by those who loved him most.
Following Gary’s announcement, numerous celebrities and fans reached out to offer their condolences and support. Actress Angie Harmon wrote:
“We are so sorry Gary. You and your family are deeply loved by so many. We are all praying for you. Love you so very much.”
Actress Alyssa Milano also commented:
“I’m so sorry, Gary. I’m praying for your family. And sending you love and strength.”
As Gary, Moira, and the entire Sinise family continue to grieve, they are also honoring Mac’s memory by sharing his story, his courage, and his music with the world. Gary’s strength in speaking so openly about such a deeply personal loss has touched thousands and raised awareness about the challenges faced by families battling rare and aggressive diseases like Chordoma.
Our hearts go out to Gary Sinise, Moira Sinise, and their daughters during this time of profound sorrow. The pain of losing a child is unimaginable, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the Sinise family. May Mac’s life, music, and spirit continue to inspire those who hear his story.
