Home and Away star Ben Unwin, who was well known for playing popular character Jesse McGregor, has died at the age of 41, with former cast mate Lynne McGranger describing his death as a “terrible tragedy”.
The popular actress, who plays Irene Roberts on Home and Away, revealed how sad she was to hear the news in an emotional statement, commenting: “Deepest condolences to his friends and family.”
The Aussie actor appeared on the much-loved TV show from 1996 to 2000 and then again from 2002 to 2005. Tributes have already begun pouring in with a Seven network spokesman explaining in a statement how saddened they were to learn of the passing of Ben.
“Cast and crew from Home and Away are saddened to learn of the passing of former castmate, Ben Unwin,” the statement read. “Ben’s work in the role of Jesse McGregor is remembered with much affection. Ben’s family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.”
NSW Police confirmed to Starts at 60 that a 41-year-old man’s body was found in Minyon Falls, Whian Whian.
“Police attended Minyon Falls, Whian Whian, responding to a concern for welfare,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “The body of a 41-year-old man was located. The death has not been treated as suspicious.”
A stream of comments have been shared online, with one fan writing on Twitter: “Very sad to hear about Ben Unwin.” Meanwhile, another added: “Woah! What the actual hell?? I remember I used to have a big crush on him back in the day! RIP Ben #HomeandAway.”
Another wrote on Facebook: “OMG Rest in Peace Ben. I remember wanting to be come famous just to meet him and marry him. Absolutely had a massive crush on him. Between him and Deter Brummar wow,” while one added: “This is so sad, I loved his character r.i.p buddy.”
Elsewhere, as news quickly spread online, one fan of the show commented on Twitter: “It’s saddening, RIP, condolences to the family and friends,” while one wrote: “Devastated to hear this news… Ben was an utterly lovely guy. I’m so sad he felt there was no other way for him. Rest in peace, mate.”
And one added: “Ben Unwin was one of my favourites on Home and Away. I covered my school books and walls with photos of him. This is terrible news.”
Ben was nominated for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Talent in 1997, as well as a British National Television Award in 1997 for Most Popular Newcomer. According to reports, he sadly passed away just a week ago – a day before he turned 42.
Ben’s character Jesse was well known for his wild antics on the show, while also having a close bond with Ray Meagher’s long-running character Alf Stewart – with the pair opening the famous Bait Shop, which was then called A&J’s Baits and Bits. Sadly, he was also involved in a tense storyline which saw his character spend time behind bars when he was falsely accused of burning down the shop.
According to multiple reports, Ben gave up acting following his final stint on the show and studied law, before working as a senior solicitor in Sydney.
If you are concerned about a crisis in your family, friends or workplace, contact Mensline Australia on 1300 789 978, Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277 or Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 for confidential support, advice and referral that will help you explore your options.