The Home and Away family is in mourning today following heartbreaking reports that a former cast member has passed away at home after a prolonged struggle with poor health.

The news has sent shockwaves through the Australian television industry and left long-time fans of the iconic soap reeling. According to sources close to the family

, the beloved former star died peacefully at their private residence, surrounded by loved ones. While the family has chosen to keep specific medical details private,

it’s understood that the actor had been quietly battling serious health complications for some time, largely away from the public eye.

The performer rose to prominence during a memorable era of Home and Away, becoming a familiar face in living rooms across Australia and internationally. Their character was central to several emotionally charged storylines, earning praise for raw performances that helped define the show’s reputation for heartfelt, character-driven drama. For many viewers, they weren’t just watching a soap character — they were watching someone who felt like family.

Behind the scenes, colleagues remember the late actor as generous, professional, and deeply passionate about their craft. Former co-stars have reportedly been reaching out privately to one another since the news broke, sharing memories from long days on set in Summer Bay and expressing disbelief that such a vibrant presence is now gone.

One industry insider described the loss as “the end of an era,” adding that the actor’s contribution to Home and Away extended far beyond ratings or storylines. “They brought warmth to the set and depth to every scene. You always felt safe acting opposite them because they gave so much.”’

After leaving Home and Away, the actor stepped back from the spotlight, making only occasional public appearances in later years. Fans had noticed their absence from recent reunions and interviews, though few were aware of the extent of their health struggles. Friends say the decision to live more privately was intentional, allowing them to focus on well-being and family during an increasingly difficult period.

News of the death has sparked an outpouring of grief online, with fans revisiting classic episodes and sharing clips of the actor’s most unforgettable moments. Many have expressed gratitude for the comfort and escapism their performances provided during formative years of their own lives.

Producers of Home and Away are expected to acknowledge the loss in the coming days, with speculation that a tribute episode or on-screen dedication may follow. For a show that has always blurred the line between fiction and family, honoring a former cast member feels both inevitable and deeply emotional.

As the community reflects on this loss, one thing is clear: the legacy left behind is enduring. Through powerful storytelling, unforgettable scenes, and genuine connection with audiences, this former Home and Away star helped shape a cultural institution — and that impact will not be forgotten.