In a devastating revelation that has rocked the Home and Away community, former fan-favourite actor Liam Harrow, who portrayed troubled River Boy Kade Lennox from 2016 to 2019, has announced the sudden and unexpected passing of his former co-star — the beloved actress Marina Cole, known to viewers for her breakout role as fiery surf instructor Talia Briggs.

Harrow shared the heartbreaking news late last night, posting a solemn black-and-white photo of the pair on set, taken during their early days filming in Summer Bay. In a deeply emotional caption, he wrote:

“I am shattered. Marina wasn’t just a co-star — she was the heart that kept us all steady during long shoots and harder days. I can’t believe she’s gone.”

Although details surrounding her passing remain closely guarded, sources close to the former castmates describe the loss as “sudden,” “deeply unexpected,” and “utterly devastating for everyone who knew her.”

Cole, who joined Home and Away in 2017 at only 21 years old, quickly became one of the show’s brightest rising stars. Fans adored her character’s bold spirit, fierce loyalty, and tumultuous relationship arcs that kept Summer Bay viewers glued to their screens. But behind the scenes, she was known for something far more important — a warm, unshakeable kindness that turned castmates into family.

A production insider, speaking under anonymity, reflected on the tight bond between Cole and Harrow.

“They were inseparable during filming. Not romantically, but soul-friends. They had that kind of connection where they always looked out for each other. Liam is absolutely gutted.”

Harrow’s tribute triggered an outpouring of grief across social media, with former castmates, crew members, and fans sharing memories of Cole’s infectious laughter and gentle nature. Many remember how she would stay late to run lines with younger actors or bring home-baked food to set when the team was pulling long nights.

Another former castmate posted:

“Marina made every room brighter. She made stressful call times feel like play. Losing her is like losing sunlight.”

Cole stepped away from Home and Away in 2020 to pursue opportunities in theatre, quickly earning acclaim for her emotionally charged stage performances. Friends say she was on the brink of announcing an exciting new project before her sudden passing.

The shock of her death has prompted calls from fans for a formal tribute in the series, and insiders report that producers have already begun discussing ways to honour the actress who left such an unforgettable mark on Summer Bay.

For now, colleagues and admirers worldwide continue to mourn the loss of a talent taken far too soon — and a soul who, as Harrow wrote, “gave more love to the world than it ever knew what to do with.”

As the Home and Away community reels, one thing is painfully clear: Marina Cole’s light will be missed — but never forgotten.