The Home and Away community is reeling tonight after the heartbreaking news that beloved former cast member Alison Briggs has died at her home in Sydney following

a prolonged battle with deteriorating health. She was 57. Briggs, whose warm presence and nuanced performances made her a fan favorite during her years on the iconic Australian soap,

passed away peacefully earlier today, surrounded by family. Her death comes after a documented struggle with chronic illness that forced her out of the spotlight in recent years.

Her family confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement released to the press:

“It is with profound sadness that we share Alison passed away today at her home. She fought her health battle with unmatched courage and grace. She was a devoted mother, a treasured friend, and a brilliant actress. We ask for privacy as we mourn her loss.”

Fans around the world first fell in love with Briggs in the early 2000s during her unforgettable portrayal of Clare Summers, the fiercely loyal best friend whose journey of resilience and heartache resonated deeply with Home and Away viewers. Over the course of her storyline, Briggs brought both vulnerability and strength to the role, creating a character whose emotional struggles and triumphs became central to several defining arcs of the era.

Her departure from the show in 2008 left fans clamoring for more, and though Briggs stepped away from regular television work to focus on her health and personal life, she always remained a cherished part of the Home and Away legacy.

Tributes have already begun pouring in from her former castmates and friends. Ada Nicodemou, who starred alongside Briggs for several seasons, shared an emotional reflection on social media:

“Alison was a brilliant soul and a wonderful human. She lit up every room she entered. I’ll miss her laugh, her kindness, and her fierce spirit. Rest in peace, my friend.”

Likewise, Chris Hemsworth, who appeared with Briggs during her tenure on the show, acknowledged her influence on his early career with a poignant tribute: “Alison taught so many of us what it means to bring truth to every performance. She was a mentor, a colleague, and an inspiration.”

Industry figures have echoed the outpouring of remembrance, with writers and producers praised Briggs not only for her craft but for her generosity behind the scenes. Known for uplifting younger actors and advocating for mental health awareness, her legacy extends far beyond her screen credits.

Briggs’s fans have also taken to forums and fan pages to share memories of the moments that defined her time on Home and Away — from her dramatic stand-offs to her quieter, more tender scenes that revealed Clare’s enduring heart. Many recall how Briggs’s chemistry with co-stars elevated the emotional impact of pivotal storylines, and how her wit and warmth made even everyday scenes feel deeply personal.

Late-career interviews offer a glimpse into her off-screen resilience as well. In candid conversations about her health journey, Briggs spoke openly about the challenges she faced and her gratitude for the support of her family and fans. Her courage in the face of adversity only deepened the admiration audiences held for her.

While the world mourns the passing of Alison Briggs, her contributions to Australian television and her impact on generations of viewers remain indelible. A private funeral service is expected to be held, with plans for a public memorial to celebrate her life and work.

In an industry defined by change, Alison Briggs stood as a reminder of why storytelling and human connection endure. Her presence on screen will be missed, but her legacy in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike will live on.