Home and Away’s Ben Unwin has died aged 41
Former Home and Away actor Ben Unwin has passed away at the age of 41.
The body of the Logie nominated star who played Jesse McGregor from 1996-2000 and 2002-2005 was found last week.
A statement from New South Wales Police revealed the news today.
“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.”
Since leaving the Australian soap 14 years ago, Ben retrained and had been practising as a solicitor.
Ben first appeared on Home and Away as Jesse McGregor in 1996
Ben with co-star Sara Mumcu (Jesse’s daughter Rachel) in 2002.
His Home and Away co-stars have been paying tribute on social media.
Kimberley Cooper, who played Gypsy Nash, posted a photo of her first TV Week cover, in which she featured alongside Ben. She said:
“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.“
Dan Bennett, who was Associate Script Producer and Script Producer during Ben’s time on Home and Away, took to Twitter to pay tribute, commenting on how “Ben was an utterly lovely guy.”
Former co-star Kristy Wright, who was a friend of Ben’s pre-Home and Away, also posted a touching tribute in an Instagram post:
Jesse first departed the show in 2000, going on the run after getting involved in a stolen car racket
Alf (Ray Meager) welcomes Jesse back to the bay in 2002, when it was revealed he had shared a cell with Leah’s husband Vinnie.
In a statement, Seven Network 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.”
Jesse’s ill-fated wedding to Josie Russell (Laurie Foell) in 2005
With co-star Kristy Wright (Chloe Richards) in Episode 4000
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, in Australia you can seek support and information by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline on 1300 789 978, or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
In the UK, phone The Samaritans on 116 123, CALM on 0800 58 58 58, Papyrus on 0800 068 41 41, or Childline on 0800 1111.
This story is being discussed on our forum here.