Tributes flowing in: Home and Away star passes away at 41
Tributes have been flowing in for former Home and Away star Ben Unwin, who has sadly passed away at 41.
The long-running cast member who featured on the show under the character Jesse McGregor for over ten years.
Home and Away veterans including Lynne McGranger and Ada Nicodemou have both paid tribute to the star and are both “deeply saddened” by the tragic death of their former castmate.
McGranger described Unwin’s death as a “terrible tragedy.”
“Sending my deepest condolences to his family and friends,” the actress told The Daily Telegraph.
Nicodemou, whose character Leah Patterson-Baker had a close relationship with Unwin’s character told nine.com.au: “I just woke up to the tragic news of Ben’s passing, my heart goes out to his family.”
Kimberley Cooper, who played Gypsy Smith alongside Unwin, said she was “just so sad” to learn of his death.
“He was a gift to come to work with everyday and to be on the receiving end of his friendship was to know unwavering support, loyalty and love,” she said.
The actress took to social media to post her own tribute to her former co-star, by sharing a photograph of the duo of them on TV Week.
“My first TV week cover was with you. We had years of laughter, be it giggles on set trying to get through scenes as lovers or doubled over belly laughs at the pubs after work,” she wrote.
“I will be sad for now, but I promise to tell stories of great joy about our times together. You forever hold a special place in my heart. Love you Onion.”
Unwin’s body was found by police on August 14, just a day before his 42nd birthday.
“Police attended Minyon Falls, Whian Whian, responding to a concern for welfare,” NSW Police said in a statement.
“The body of a 41-year-old man was located. The death has not been treated as suspicious.”
Unwin played Jesse McGregor on the beloved Australian show on-and-off for a decade, between 1996-2000 and 2002-2005.
After he left Home and Away, Unwin went on to direct music videos for Boy George and Culture Club, including the singles I Just Wanna Be Loved and Your Kisses Are Charity.
The actor and director later went on to leave the media industry altogether and went on to complete a law degree. According to Woman’s Day, Unwin was working as a senior solicitor in Newcastle.
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Scroll through the gallery to see Ben Unwin throughout the years.