Former Home And Away actor Ben Unwin found dead aged 41
Former and current cast and crew members of Home And Away have expressed their shock after the body of soap star Ben Unwin was found on a remote property in northern NSW.
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Former Home And Away actor Ben Unwin has died at the age of 41.
NSW Police confirmed the body of the former actor was discovered on a remote property near Nimbin on August 14.
“Police attended Minyon Falls, Whian Whian, responding to a concern for welfare,” a statement read. “The body of a 41-year-old man was located. The death has not been treated as suspicious.”
Unwin was known for playing Jesse McGregor over two stints, first from 1996 to 2000 and again from 2002 to 2005.
Kimberley Cooper, who played Gipsy Smith on the soap, said she would remember the laughter.
My first tv week cover was with you. We had years of laughter, be it giggles on set trying to get through scenes as lovers or doubled over belly laughs at the pubs after work. I will be sad for now, but I promise to tell stories of great joy about our times together. You forever hold a special place in my heart. Love you Onion,” she said.
Former Home and Away script producer Dan Bennett took to social media to pay tribute to Unwin.
“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,” he said.
Kristy Wright, who played Chloe Richards on Home and Away, said she was heartbroken and shattered by the news.
“I’m completely lost for words. In 1992 I met you for the first time and immediately fell into a crazy school girl crush. Watching you sing Tom Jones ‘If I only knew’ in your tight white pants is one of my favorite memories of you and just the first of so many,” she wrote.
A Channel 7 spokesperson said: “Cast and crew from Home And Away are saddened to learn of the passing of former cast mate, 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.”
Unwin’s other television credits include Eggshells and G.P.
He was nominated for a Most Popular New Talent Logie Award in 1997, as well as a British National Television Award for Most Popular Newcomer that same year.
After Home And Away, he secured a law degree and worked as a solicitor.
Lynne McGranger, one of the longest serving cast members on the show, was shocked to hear the news.
“What a terrible tragedy,” she said. “Sending my deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
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