Ryan McCartan Fired Agent Over Diabetes Disclosure
The Broadway actor dismissed a representative who advised him to hide his lifelong Type 1 diabetes diagnosis.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Diabetes
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Actor Ryan McCartan fired an agent who warned that disclosing his Type 1 diabetes diagnosis would hinder his professional career. McCartan, who currently stars as Jay Gatsby on Broadway, has navigated life with the condition since childhood.
Why it matters
The decision highlights the persistent stigma surrounding chronic illnesses in the entertainment industry. McCartan's public stance aims to challenge the notion that health conditions must remain hidden to achieve success.
McCartan was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 6. The medical history serves as the baseline for his management strategies, including the use of modern technology to monitor blood glucose levels.
The players
Ryan McCartan
He is an American actor currently performing as Jay Gatsby in the Broadway production of The Great Gatsby.
Timmy Schues
He is a dresser who assists McCartan by monitoring his blood sugar levels during Broadway performances.
The details
After experiencing a diabetic reaction during a tech rehearsal as a child actor, McCartan's mother began informing his colleagues about his needs. Now starring in The Great Gatsby, he maintains an active safety system by providing his dresser, Timmy Schues, with access to his phone to monitor blood sugar levels.
Timeline
McCartan was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 6.
The actor shared his experience in a People magazine interview on October 9, 2026.
The Big Picture
This event marks a departure from the historical trend of medical stigma in the entertainment industry by prioritizing transparency over professional conformity. It signals a shift toward greater acceptance of chronic health management within high-pressure theatrical environments.
The story underscores the importance of integrating chronic disease management into daily professional routines. For others with diabetes, it demonstrates that using monitoring technology in workplace settings is a viable and necessary approach to safety.
The takeaway
Maintaining personal health and safety should remain a priority even within competitive professional industries. Clear communication with support staff can bridge the gap between managing a chronic illness and fulfilling professional commitments.
Further reading
Learn more about living with the condition at United States Diabetes.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
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