Home and Away actor Ben Unwin's employer says he was a 'well-respected' lawyer

Home and Away actor Ben Unwin’s death ‘marks a great loss to both the media and legal profession’, says his former employer.

Ben, who tragically died at age 41 last week, had a career change after finishing off on the Aussie soap in 2005, going on to study law and working as a solicitor.

Law firm Whitelaw McDonald, based in both Newcastle and on New South Wales’ Central Coast, has paid tribute to their former employee who was a senior solicitor at the company.

“The condolences and prayers of Whitelaw McDonald go out to the family of Mr Ben Unwin,” John McDonald, Partner at Whitelaw McDonald, told Yahoo Lifestyle on Wednesday.

“Ben was a well-respected colleague and lawyer. Ben's achievements in the field of law and media were exemplary and reflected well upon him and his family.

“This marks a great loss to both the Media and Legal Profession.”

Ben Unwin’s legal career

Ben studied a Bachelor of Law at the University of New South Wales before pursuing a Master of Laws.

He appeared on Home and Away from 1996–2000 and then 2002–2005.

The Australian star, who played Jesse McGregor on the popular TV soap, died last week.

Police issue statement

A NSW police statement to Yahoo Lifestyle said that on August 14 “police attended Minyon Falls, Whian Whian, responding to a concern for welfare.

“The body of a 41-year-old man was located. The death has not been treated as suspicious.”

His performance on Home and Away landed him a Logie nomination in 1997 for the Most Popular New Talent category.

That same year he was also nominated for a British National Television award, again for his outstanding performance as a newcomer to the industry.

Home and Away co-stars pay tribute

Home and Away actress Ada Nicodemou has paid tribute to her former co-star.

“I just woke up to the tragic news of Ben’s passing, my heart goes out to his family,” 42-year-old Ada told Yahoo Lifestyle.

Ada worked closely with Ben during his time on Home and Away from 1996–2000 and then 2002–2005.

Her character Leah Patterson-Baker had a brief romance with Ben’s character Jesse McGregor on the popular TV soap.

Former castmate Lynne McGranger, who plays Irene Roberts, described it as a “terrible tragedy”.

"Deepest condolences to his friends and family," she said.

Meanwhile Kimberley Cooper, who played Gypsy Smith on the show, reminisced about their “giggles on set”.

“You forever hold a special place in my heart. Love you Onion,” she added.

Kristy Wright, who played Chloe Richards on the show, shared a post on Instagram in which she expressed regret for not having kept in contact with Ben.

“We haven’t spoken in a few years and I can not express in this moment how sorry I am for that,” she wrote. “I miss you now that I know I will never see you again.

“I will forever regret not reaching out more … I’m so sorry. I love you. RIP my old friend.”

If you are concerned about the mental health of yourself or a loved one, seek support and information by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline on 1300 789 978, or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

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