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Home and Away actor Ben Unwin dies at age 41

Former Home and Away star Ben Unwin has died at age 41
Former Home and Away star Ben Unwin has died. Photo: Getty

Former Home and Away actor Ben Unwin has tragically passed away at the age of 41.

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

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.”

Ben famously played Jesse McGregor on Home and Away from 1996–2000 and then 2002–2005.

Ben Unwin played Jesse McGregor on Home and Away from 1996–2000 and then 2002–2005. The actor pictured here with co-stars Jodi Anasta (nee Gordon) and Ray Meagher
Ben played Jesse McGregor on Home and Away from 1996–2000 and then 2002–2005. The actor pictured here with co-stars Jodi Anasta (nee Gordon) and Ray Meagher. Photo: Channel Seven

His performance 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.

Ben reportedly had a career change after leaving the beloved show, studying law and working as a solicitor.

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.

Ben Unwin and Ada Nicodemou on Home and Away. Photo: Channel Seven
Ben Unwin and Ada Nicodemou on Home and Away. Photo: Channel Seven

Fans share shock and devastation

There has been an outpouring of shock and grief from fans online after the tragic news broke.

Across social media people shared messages and tributes for the actor.

“That’s very sad. [He] used to be a fave back in the day. Tragic news,” one fan wrote on Facebook.

“Oh wow. I met him years ago. He was such a nice guy,” another added.

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.

Home and Away star Ben Unwin pictured with Kate Ritchie at the 2003 Logie Awards.
Ben Unwin pictured with Kate Ritchie at the 2003 Logie Awards. Photo: Getty

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