“They Destroyed Him”: Actress Clare McCann Opens Up About Her Son Atreyu’s Tragic Death

Sydney, Australia — Clare McCann, a beloved Australian actress and filmmaker, is living through every parent’s worst nightmare: the sudden and heartbreaking loss of her 13-year-old son, Atreyu.

He died by suicide after enduring months of relentless bullying at his New South Wales public school.

Now, Clare is using her platform to share his story—and fight for the children who still suffer in silence.

A Bright Light Dimmed by Cruelty

Atreyu was only in Year 7 at South Sydney High School, just beginning a new chapter in life. But within two days of starting, he was in tears, begging his mother to protect him from the bullies.

“As my worst nightmare came to life, my child’s was stolen,” Clare wrote in a heartbreaking Instagram post.
“Atreyu was the brightest light in my world—kind, creative, and endlessly loved.”

She described the abuse: physical attacks, body shaming, harassing phone calls, even an alleged attempt to drown him during a school camp. “They just destroyed him,” she said.

A Mother’s Fight to Save—and Now, to Remember

In April, Clare pulled Atreyu out of school when he told her, “If I have to go back, I’ll kill myself.”
For a time, things seemed better. He was in therapy, away from torment. She believed he was healing.

Then, without warning, Atreyu took his life.

There was no note. Just silence, and a family shattered.

A Cry for Change—and for Hope

In the aftermath, Clare launched a GoFundMe with an unusual request: to cryogenically preserve Atreyu’s body within seven days of his death. The $195,290 (USD) campaign aims to fulfill what Clare says were conversations she and Atreyu had about the afterlife.

“We talked about the future, about heaven, about coming back someday. I can’t fail him now,” she said.

Any funds beyond the preservation goal will go toward anti-bullying reform, legal action, and supporting other families. Clare has accused the school system of failing her son, despite ten documented warnings between February and April—including psychologist reports, PTSD diagnoses, and emails to the Department of Education.

A Public Plea, A Private Grief

Clare is now turning her personal heartbreak into a public mission:

“This is about hope and justice. I won’t let my son’s story end in silence.”

She has received messages of condolence from officials including NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car, who called the tragedy “heartbreaking” and promised support for the school community.

Atreyu’s Legacy

Atreyu was more than a victim. He was an actor, having appeared in “Deadly Women” and two films, “Black Truck” and “Benefited.” He was full of dreams, talent, and light.

And now, through Clare’s voice, he is a symbol of a broken system—and a reminder that bullying kills.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone.

Call or text 9-8-8 in the U.S. and Canada, or reach out to a local crisis center.
In Australia, contact Lifeline at 13 11 14.