13-Year-Old Boy Tragically Takes His Life, His Famous Mom Reveals Why He Did It
Australian performer and filmmaker Clare McCann has taken an extraordinary stand following the devastating death of her 13-year-old son, Atreyu. The young boy, described by his mother as gentle and artistic, died by suicide on May 23 after enduring relentless bullying at a public school in New South Wales. For McCann, the tragedy represents what she calls a “catastrophic failure” by schools and government agencies to protect vulnerable children.
McCann, widely recognized from the Channel V series Blog Party, has launched a powerful public campaign in both grief and defiance. Through a GoFundMe initiative, she is seeking $300,000 to cryonically preserve her son’s body — a procedure she says must begin within days if there is to be any possibility of future revival through scientific advancement. While the method remains highly controversial and unproven, McCann views it as an act of hope.
“This is not about science alone,” she wrote. “It is about hope and justice — and refusing to allow my child’s life to be erased in silence.”
The performer says her son suffered months of severe bullying, and that despite repeated warnings to teachers, administrators, and government agencies, no action was taken. She claims to possess extensive documentation, including psychological assessments, PTSD diagnoses, and formal complaints showing that her calls for intervention were ignored.
“I begged the school to intervene,” she said. “Nothing was done. Nobody stepped in. And now my son is gone.”
Atreyu, whose name was inspired by The NeverEnding Story, was remembered as a creative and compassionate soul with a bright imagination. McCann says her campaign is not only about preservation but also about accountability — ensuring that her son’s death becomes a catalyst for systemic change.
As the fundraising effort gains attention, McCann’s plea continues to spark difficult conversations about bullying, parental advocacy, and the limits of institutional responsibility.