1. Rachael Carpani (45) — Passed Away Peacefully
Beloved Australian actress Rachael Carpani, who appeared in Home and Away and McLeod’s Daughters, died peacefully at home on 7 December 2025 after a long battle with a chronic illness, her family announced. She was 45. The news sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans who remembered her warmth, talent, and impact on Australian TV.

2. Wendy Playfair (99) — TV Legend Dies
Australian screen icon Wendy Playfair, known for her work on Home and Away and Prisoner: Cell Block H, has died at age 99. Revered for her remarkable five‑decade career across theatre, radio, and television, she was celebrated as a consummate professional whose presence brought depth and dignity to every role. Tributes have poured in from across the Australian entertainment community.

3. Eric Dane (1972–2026)
While not a Home and Away star, the film and TV world mourns Eric Dane, known for roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, who passed away in February 2026 after battling ALS. His family expressed sadness that he was omitted from the televised Oscars “In Memoriam” segment, though he was honored on the Academy’s official memorial page.

4. Family Loss for Alice Evans
Actress Alice Evans announced the death of her father on 13 March 2026, six months after losing her brother. Although not an industry star like the others listed, her emotional tribute highlights the human side of loss shared by figures connected to TV and film.

⚠️ Not a Current Home and Away Death — But Still a Major Loss

Some earlier fan‑favourite Home and Away actors have passed in past years, and they remain deeply missed by viewers:

• Ben Unwin (1977–2019) — Played Jesse McGregor; found dead at home shortly before his 42nd birthday.

Despite persistent online rumors about other cast members’ deaths or illnesses, fact‑checking confirms these claims are false — including for actors like Tessa James and Georgie Parker.

🎭 Legacy and Industry Reaction

Rachael Carpani’s passing in late 2025 hit fans especially hard because she bridged two beloved Australian dramas and remained cherished for her authenticity and talent. Tributes honored her not just for her performances, but for the warmth she brought off‑screen as well.

Wendy Playfair, meanwhile, was mourned as a television legend, whose career spanned generations and whose influence helped shape the Australian entertainment landscape over decades.

Both of these figures are remembered not just as performers, but as cherished parts of TV history whose absence leaves a significant void among colleagues and fans alike.