Australian actress and filmmaker Clare McCann is facing an unimaginable tragedy: the loss of her 13-year-old son, Atreyu, who took his own life after enduring months of relentless bullying. Clare shared her heartbreak publicly, calling for urgent action to protect children from the kind of suffering that ended her son’s life.
Known for her work on Deadly Women and the film Benefited, Clare revealed the devastating news on Instagram: “My worst nightmare has come to life — my child’s life has been stolen,” she wrote. “Atreyu was the brightest light in my world — kind, creative, and endlessly loved. We are broken beyond words.”
Atreyu had been targeted with severe bullying after starting Year 7 at South Sydney High School, including verbal abuse, physical attacks, and a traumatic incident at a school camp. Despite Clare reporting the incidents multiple times to teachers and the Department of Education, no effective action was taken. She has provided evidence including emails, medical records, and a PTSD diagnosis to show her repeated attempts to protect him.
Eventually, Clare pulled Atreyu out of school, hoping therapy and distance would help him heal. Tragically, the bullying had already taken its toll. “They destroyed him,” she said. “And in one moment of unimaginable pain, he just didn’t know what else to do.”
In his memory, Clare launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $300,000 AUD (around $195,000 USD) to cryogenically preserve Atreyu’s body, honor his dream of “life beyond life,” cover medical and legal costs, and fund anti-bullying advocacy. “This was not his fault,” Clare said. “He was failed by a system that allowed this abuse to continue unchecked. I’m asking for help not just to preserve my son’s life, but to fight against this epidemic of child suicides caused by bullying.”
Atreyu was a talented young actor, appearing in Deadly Women, Black Truck, and Benefited. Clare described him as compassionate, imaginative, and wise beyond his years. “He had the most beautiful heart,” she said.
Officials, including NSW Deputy Premier and Education Minister Prue Car, offered condolences, and the Department of Education is providing counseling and support to the school community. However, Clare insists that action, not sympathy, is needed. “This is about every child who feels unseen and unheard,” she said. “It’s about making sure no other parent has to bury their child because of cruelty that could have been stopped.”
Amid her grief, Clare continues to honor Atreyu’s belief in hope and connection beyond death. “He was still dreaming, even through the pain. I can’t fail him now.” Her message is clear: bullying kills, and silence allows it to continue. She hopes Atreyu’s story will spark real change, promoting compassion, accountability, and vigilance to save lives.
“This isn’t just about grief,” she said. “It’s about justice, love, and refusing to let my son’s story end in silence.”