Ben Unwin's friend 'sad he felt there was no other way' after Home And Away star found dead

Australian writer and producer Dan Bennett has spoken out following the death of his “mate,” former Home And Away star Ben Unwin.

Dan took to Twitter on Tuesday night to pay tribute to the late actor, who tragically passed away at the age of 41 last week.

“Devastated to hear this news. Ben was an utterly lovely guy,” the co-host of entertainment industry news podcast, TV Blackbox , wrote.

“I’m so sad he felt there was no other way for him. Rest in peace, mate,” he added along with a link to a story by Yahoo Lifestyle.

Co-stars speak out

Ben’s Home And Away co-stars have also posted heartfelt messages on social media following news of his passing.

Ada Nicodemou, who worked closely with Ben, called the news “tragic”.

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

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.

In an official statement obtained by Yahoo Lifestyle, Channel 7 said:

“Cast and crew from Home and Away are saddened to learn of the passing of former castmate, Ben Unwin”.

“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,” the statement read.

Fans of the star also shared their shock and grief online after the tragic news broke.

“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.

Sad passing

The Australian star, who played Jesse McGregor on the popular TV soap, passed away last week at the age of 41.

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.

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.

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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