Ryan McCartan Calls Managing His Type 1 Diabetes a ‘Team Effort’ While Performing 8 Shows a Week on Broadway (Exclusive)

Ryan McCartan, known for his role as Jay Gatsby in the Broadway production of *The Great Gatsby*, has opened up about the support he receives from his cast and crew as he manages Type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed at a young age, McCartan’s condition involves his body producing little to no insulin, necessitating careful monitoring, especially as he performs up to eight shows a week.

In a recent interview with *PEOPLE*, McCartan emphasised the significance of teamwork in managing his health while performing. “The show must go on regardless of if your blood sugar goes low in the middle of a show,” he stated, illustrating the challenges faced by actors with chronic conditions. McCartan attributes much of his ability to perform smoothly to the backstage support system. His dresser, Timmy Schues, has been singled out as an “unsung hero” in ensuring McCartan has the quick access to sugar he needs during performances.

Schues also has the capability to monitor McCartan’s blood sugar levels through access to the actor’s phone, a measure that adds an extra layer of security during shows. McCartan expressed his gratitude, saying, “Theater is a team sport. It is not an exaggeration at all to say that my survivability as a chronically ill performer depends on my team.” According to him, without such support, he might not be able to continue performing.

Reflecting on his journey, McCartan recalled a pivotal moment in his childhood. At just eight years old, he experienced a severe diabetic episode outside a theatre. His mother quickly recognised the signs and ushered him inside for help. This incident established a practice he has upheld throughout his career: ensuring that everyone involved in a production is aware of his condition.

Despite the inherent risks of sharing his health information, McCartan has remained open about his diagnosis. He disclosed that, at one point, an agent encouraged him to keep his condition private for the sake of his career. However, he rejected that advice and moved on from the agent, believing honesty about his health is crucial.

In addition to the support from his immediate team, McCartan highlighted the broader assistance he received from the theatrical community during the pandemic. The shutdown of theatres in March 2020 impacted many performers, including McCartan, who had just commenced a role in *Frozen*. With the absence of a paycheck and the loss of health insurance, he faced challenges in affording his necessary insulin.

During this difficult period, the nonprofit organisation Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS stepped in to offer support. McCartan described how the organisation helped him secure insurance quickly, ensuring he could access his medication without incurring overwhelming debt. He remarked, “I could have been looking at hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt,” without their assistance.

Since his experience, McCartan has used his platform to advocate for those who face similar challenges. He frequently shares his story during Broadway Cares’ fundraising campaigns, helping to raise awareness and support for individuals living with chronic illnesses. He noted how the generosity of the theatre community has deeply impacted his ability to continue performing.

“I’m very, very lucky to be surrounded by people who are willing to go out of their way to help,” he stated, encapsulating the essence of community support during tough times. McCartan’s journey serves as a reminder of the strength found in collaboration and the importance of compassion in the performing arts industry.

As *The Great Gatsby* continues its run on Broadway, tickets are now available, drawing attention to both the show and the remarkable stories of its cast members, such as McCartan’s.