Popular Australian actor Dieter Brummer, who shot to fame for playing the character of Shane Parrish on the popular TV show ‘Home and Away,’ was found dead at his home at the age of 45.
The police found his body on Saturday (July 24) afternoon in Glenhaven, Sydney, after requests for a welfare check. His death is not believed to be suspicious.
Brummer’s family released a press statement on Monday that said: “We lost our handsome, talented, funny, complicated and beloved Dieter on Saturday morning.”
“He has left a massive hole in our lives and our world will never be the same. Our thoughts go out to all of you who knew him, loved him, or worked with him over the years. We appreciate you respecting our privacy at this terrible time.”
Brummer joined the cast of Seven’s ‘Home and Away’ in 1992. He became a fan favourite during his time on the show, with his character particularly beloved for his romance with Angel, played by Melissa George.
Brummer was nominated for gold and silver Logie awards in the “most popular actor” category for his performance on ‘Home and Away,’ in 1995 and 1996. He was also voted “prince of soap” by Dolly magazine readers during that time.
In 1996 he did TV roles in series like ‘Medivac,’ ‘Shark Bay,’ ‘Underbelly,’ ‘Winners and Losers.’
His acting career declined and at one point he took a job as a high-rise window cleaner.
In an interview with TV Tonight he said: “People say that I’m just a window cleaner; in reality, it’s substantially more involved than that … a relatively specialist trade.”
Tributes to Brummer began to flow on social media platforms on Monday after the news of the actor’s death broke.
A spokesperson from Channel Seven said in a press statement: “‘Home and Away’ and Channel 7 are deeply saddened to hear of Dieter Brummer’s passing. Dieter was a much-loved ‘Home and Away’ cast member and celebrated by Australian and international audiences for his award-winning portrayal of Shane Parrish. We send our sincere condolences to Dieter’s family and friends during this very difficult time.”
