13-year-old boy takes his own life – famous actress mother reveals the horrific reason he did it and it breaks our hearts

Australian actress and filmmaker Clare McCann has shared the heartbreaking news that her 13-year-old son, Atreyu, tragically took his own life after enduring months of severe bullying at school. Her announcement has sparked public concern and calls for stronger anti-bullying measures.

In an emotional Instagram post, Clare described her grief, writing that her “worst nightmare has come to life” and that Atreyu, her only child, was “the brightest light in [her] world — kind, creative, and endlessly loved.”

Clare has launched a GoFundMe campaign seeking $195,000 USD (approx. $300,000 AUD) to cryogenically preserve Atreyu’s body within seven days. Funds will also cover legal and medical expenses and establish a trust in his name. Any extra funds will support anti-bullying reforms and help other families in similar situations.

Atreyu began Year 7 at South Sydney High School in February. Within days, he returned home in tears, reporting relentless bullying. Over months, he faced physical attacks, emotional cruelty, and even an attempted drowning at a school camp, despite multiple reports to the school and Department of Education.

In April, after Atreyu shared suicidal thoughts with his mother, Clare withdrew him from school and sought professional help. Though briefly hopeful, the prolonged trauma proved devastating.

Clare hopes to honor her son’s dreams through cryopreservation, saying, “Those were his wishes and dreams, and I can’t fail him now,” emphasizing the need for hope and justice.

Atreyu was already a young talent with roles in shows like Deadly Women and films including Black Truck. Clare is now advocating for systemic change in school bullying policies, educator training, and student wellbeing, while the community offers support and counseling resources.