The Australian television community is in mourning following devastating reports that former Home and Away actress Kirsty Marillier has died after struggling with severe depression. The news has sent shockwaves through fans and colleagues, reopening urgent conversations about mental health, fame, and the quiet pressures faced by performers long after the cameras stop rolling.

Marillier, who appeared on Home and Away during a formative period of the show’s history, was remembered for her natural screen presence and the emotional sincerity she brought to her role. For many viewers, she represented a time when Summer Bay stories felt intimate and grounded—when characters lingered with audiences long after the episode ended.

A private struggle behind a public smile

Those close to Marillier say her battle with depression was profound and long-standing, intensified by a combination of personal challenges and the isolating aftershocks that can follow a career in the public eye. Friends have described a woman who was thoughtful and sensitive, but who increasingly retreated from public life as the years went on.

Industry peers note that leaving a high-profile series can be disorienting, especially when the sense of purpose and routine that comes with daily production suddenly disappears. While Marillier continued to pursue creative interests, sources suggest the transition away from the spotlight coincided with periods of deep emotional distress.

Tributes pour in from the Home and Away family

Former castmates and crew members have expressed heartbreak at the news, remembering Marillier as kind, generous, and deeply committed to her craft. Several have spoken about the early days of the show, recalling how she helped set a collaborative tone on set and supported younger actors navigating their first major roles.

Fans have also shared messages of grief, many saying they felt an immediate, personal connection to her performances. “She made you feel like you knew her,” one longtime viewer wrote. “This loss hurts in a way that’s hard to explain.”

A sobering reminder for the industry

Marillier’s death has reignited debate around mental health support within the entertainment industry, particularly for performers whose careers peak early or who step away from the spotlight. Advocates argue that depression can remain hidden behind nostalgia and fond memories, even as individuals struggle privately.

Mental health professionals emphasize that depression is an illness—not a failure—and that early, ongoing support can be lifesaving. Colleagues are now calling for stronger, long-term care networks for actors, extending well beyond their time on set.

Remembering her legacy

As tributes continue, many are choosing to remember Kirsty Marillier not solely for the tragedy of her death, but for the warmth and authenticity she brought to Australian television. Her work remains part of Home and Away’s enduring legacy, woven into the fabric of a show that has meant so much to so many.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In Australia, Lifeline is available at 13 11 14. In the U.S., the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988. Reaching out can make a difference.