Hilary Swank reveals 'devastating' death of her father Stephen

Oscar-winning actress Hilary Swank has penned an emotional tribute revealing the 'devastating' loss of her father, who died in October.

The Million Dollar Baby star took to Instagram on Saturday sharing a selfie of herself and her dad Stephen, after taking some time away from the public eye in recent months to mourn.

"This past year was a big one for me and I know for so many of us. I have been off my phone and social media for a couple months due to a tremendous personal loss," Hilary began.

"In October, my Dear Dad, made his transition to the other side. I had a rather unique relationship with him as I was his sole caretaker after a lung transplant seven years ago. I grew incredibly close to him during this time, deepening our relationship and savouring every moment we had together. He will always remain one of my most favourite persons and not a day goes by that I don't miss him."

RELATED:

• Betty White: Tributes flow after Hollywood legend dies aged 99

• Bachelorette Brooke Blurton blindsided by breakup post: 'Quite overwhelming'

• Fans left shocked at Jared Leto's real age: 'Must be a vampire'

Hilary went on to note that Stephen's "devastating" passing helped her understand the "circle of life" and connect to "my truest self".

"It helped me forgive, to move past the things that hold me back, in whatever form that takes each day. As well as being deeply connected to the Ultimate Source and therefore, my Dad, always," the 47-year-old added.

She also used the announcement to thank her followers for their support and wished her fans a Happy New Year.

"This last year I hope whatever trials and tribulations you all have had on your life journey bring you closer to your truest essence and help guide you into this New Year with whatever blessings you most need. We are all in this together. I love you all and am grateful for this community," she concluded.

Hilary officially took a break from Hollywood in 2014, although she initially thought it would only be for 12 months, telling People at the time: "A lung transplant is the most difficult of all, as it's an incredibly delicate organ. One year quickly turned into two and then three."

She most recently starred in the 2020 thriller Fatale and was in the Netflix series Away.

Never miss a thing. Sign up to Yahoo Lifestyle’s daily newsletter.

Or if you have a story idea, email us at lifestyle.tips@yahooinc.com.